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Home , 31st GLAAD Media Awards, American Pimp, Angus Macfadyen, Anna Chancellor, Ann Jillian, Blues for Jimi

March-April 2013

VOL. 28 THE VIDEO REVIEW MAGAZINE FOR LIBRARIES N O . 2

IN THIS ISSUE ALA Notables | Spotlight on Fitness | Into the Cold | Detropia | Inocente | Birders | Escape Fire | Putin’s Kiss | The BAKER & TAYLOR’S scene & heard ENTERTAINMENT SOLUTIONS

Baker & Taylor offers all the A/V products, services and expertise that your library needs to meet rising patron demand for movie and music products. • Expertise and a wide selection of CD, DVD and Blu-ray releases, including top new releases, classics, children’s and family, and more

• Extensive on-hand inventory in strategically located warehouses and fast delivery nationwide

• A wide variety of library-friendly programs and services including: Digital Media Processing services, Automatically Yours™ standing order programs, Music & Movie Parade auto-ship plans, exclusive NPR Discover Songs program and TechXpress cataloging and processing services

• Customized buying guides and The Red Carpet and The Green Room websites to help and your library obtain the most appropriate content

• Experienced, dedicated A/V Sales Consultants and easy ordering 24/7 through Title Source™ 3

www.baker-taylor.com 800-775-2600 x2666 [email protected] Spotlight Review

Into the Cold the lunar-like landscape of older ice (which HHHH is alarmingly decreasing, thanks to global (2010) 87 min. DVD: warming); and transparent sheets of ice like $24.98 (avail. from most a thin glass floor over a freezing ocean. The Publisher/Editor: Randy Pitman distributors, Apr. 9), $199 numerous difficulties the men encounter Associate Editor: Jazza Williams-Wood w/PPR: public libraries, while trying to survive in this inhospitable $249 w/PPR: colleges environment (where temperatures plunge Copy Editor: Kathleen L. Florio & universities. Shelter Island (dist. by TDC below -50 degrees) make for real , Editorial Assistant: Chris Pitman Entertainment). ISBN: especially when Copeland falls through Graphic Designer: Carol Kaufman 978-1-934708-95-8. that aforementioned “floor” into the ocean. Boldly going where few film crews have Before the expedition, we see the pair train- Marketing Director: Anne Williams gone before, filmmaker Sebastian Cope- ing in Duluth, MN, and , and land’s extraordinary documentary was take an informative peek at their supplies, Contributing Writers filmed using a handheld video as which include an astonishing amount of two men walked 400-plus miles through high-calorie, high-fat foods necessary for Kathleen C. Fennessy, Reviewer, survival under extreme conditions (imag- .com the Arctic Circle to the North Pole. Joining the exclusive club of expeditions that have ine burning 12,000 calories in a single Erika Gieschen, Teacher, Norwalk-La Mirada day!). DVD extras include a on Unified School District of Los Angeles County successfully reached the top of the world on foot, photographer and environmental Copeland’s photography book Antarctica: Sam Graham, Reviewer, Amazon.com activist Copeland together with profes- The Global Warning. Brimming with sights Susan Granger, SSG Syndicate sional explorer Keith Heger give viewers and sounds that not many have witnessed, Donald Liebenson, Reviewer, an amazing gift in the form of spectacular this exciting chronicle of an incredible , Amazon.com daily footage of the ice desert the pair tra- journey is highly recommended. Editor’s Stephen Rees, Librarian, Bucks Co. Free versed. It is something to behold: drifting Choice. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh) Library, Levittown, PA glaciers noisily forming pressure ridges as Frank Swietek, Associate Professor they push against one another; fantastic Cover photo credit: Sebastian Copeland, of History, University of Dallas, TX shapes of new natural ice sculptures versus © www.sebastiancopeland.com

Additional Contributors: Sean Axmaker TABLE OF CONTENTS Carson Block Charles Cassady Fran Gardner Video Newsbriefs 6 Childbirth & Parenting 60 Phil Hall Tom Keogh Books Into Movies 8 Food & Spirits 60 Kendahl Kruver Lisa Martincik Mixed Media 10 Relationships & Sexuality 60 Maureen Puffer-Rothenberg Video Movies Beauty & Fashion Michael Sandlin 18 60 Jeff Shannon Classic Films/TV 35 Business & Economics 61 to Star Ratings 42 Sports, Games & Recreation 61 Video Reviews 42 The Arts 62 Video Librarian (ISSN: 0887-6851) is pub- lished bi-monthly by Video Librarian, Children’s 42 History & Current Events 65 3435 NE Nine Boulder Dr., Poulsbo, WA 98370. Subscriptions: $64 for one year ALA-ALSC Notable Videos 2013 44 Travel & Geography 67 in the ; $69 (US) in (includes GST); $86 elsewhere. Address all Psychology & Self-Help 47 Biography 68 correspondence to Video Librarian, 3435 NE Nine Boulder Dr., Poulsbo, WA 98370. Peri- Religion & Philosophy 48 ALA-VRT Notable Videos 2013 71 odicals Postage Paid at Poulsbo, WA and at additional mailing offices.POSTMASTER: Social & Political Issues 49 Series Update 72 Send address changes to Video Librarian, 3435 NE Nine Boulder Dr., Poulsbo, WA Teen Issues 53 Japanese 73 98370. Copyright © 2013 by Randy Pitman. All rights reserved. Education 54 Music/Dance 74 Telephone/Fax/E-mail Law & Crime 54 Distributor Addresses 78 Subscriptions: (800) 692-2270 Editorial: (360) 626-1259 Language Arts 54 Title Index 80 Advertising: (800) 265-7965 Fax: (360) 626-1260 Nature, Math & Science 55 Advertiser Directory 80 E-mail: [email protected] Health & Fitness Final Frame Web: www.videolibrarian.com 57 82 Spotlight on Fitness 58

MARCH/APRIL 2013 3 VIDEO LIBRARIAN

TwoNew fromMen. Shelter One Mission. ISlaNd The Toughest Expedition on Earth.

In the last century, fewer than 150 people have made it on foot to the North Pole. Now, for the first time, the incredible journey has been captured in High Definition. For over 2 months, two men journey 400+ miles on foot facing harsh tem- peratures to -50 degrees. From their intensive training to the expedition’s successful completion, Into the Cold is a bone-chilling story of true bravery, incredible courage and unrelenting determination. Featuring award winning photographer, extreme outdoor adventurer and famed environmentalist and author Sebastian Copeland and Keith Heger, world-renowned professional expedition guide. “A gripping and intimate look at what it takes to reach the top of the world... a mix of high adventure, low temperatures and a poignant warning” – HuFFINgtoN PoSt

$24.98 SRP / $99.00 with PPR Secondary Schools / $199.00 with PPR universities Item#: SHL -DV-083 / uPC#: 826262008390 / ISBN#: 9781934708958 NtSC Region Code: 0, Aspect Ratio: 16x9 / 1:78:1 / Sound: 5.1 Stereo Surround Sound original Language: English / Color / Run time: 87 Mins. + Extras File under: Documentary / Extreme Adventure

shelterisland.net oRDER toDAY / AVAILABLE APRIL 9, 2013 new from Shelter Island “...the single greatest scandal in the history of American medical ethics.” – Nathaniel Raymond, Physicians for

DOCTORS OF THE DARK SIDE exposes the scandal of how Ameri- can physicians and psychologists facilitated and then covered up the of detainees in U.S.-controlled military prisons and CIA black sites. The first feature-length documentary on the subject, the film is a riveting exposé that portrays the impact and extent of these American doctors’ of their oaths.

“A compelling documentary about a little-known aspect of America’s worst human rights scandal in decades.”– GEORGETOwN LAw wEEKLy

Item #: SHL-DV-089 / UPC: 826262008994 / ISBN: 978-1-934708-98-9 / NTSC / REGION 0 SRP: $24.98 / $99.00 with PPR Secondary Schools / $199.00 with PPR Universities 73 Minutes + Extras / English / Color File Under: Documentary (Other) / Aspect Ratio: 16x9

ORDER TODAy / AVAILABLE MAy 7, 2013 STEREO 2.0

VL_ad_March_fin.indd 2 2/7/13 10:43 PM “Vatican tested and approved.” – MOVIES.COM

A chilling examination of the unknown and sinister world of exorcism in the Catholic Church.

Granted unprecedented access by the Catholic Church, and allowed to accompany one of the few Vatican approved exorcists, Father José Antonio Fortea, filmmaker Fredrik Horn Akselsen brings you into the secret world of Catholic exorcism. Captured in dramatic fashion, the on-camera casting out of demons is every bit as disturbing as anything Hollywood could conjure up. Includes 114 minutes of bonus material including a complete real-life exorcism and more.

“…capture[s) the powerful impact that faith has on people.” – HUFFINGTON POST

THE EXORCIST IN THE 21ST CENTURY (2013) TDC-DV-086

$19.98 SRP / $99.00 with PPR Secondary Schools / $199.00 with PPR Universities

English + Spanish with English subtitles/Color/80 Mins + 114 Mins Extras

UPC: 826262008697 / ISBN: 978-1-934708-97-2 /File Under: Documentary (Other)

Order today / Available May 7, 2013 1.78:1 WIDESCREEN new from Disinformation “Long before anyone was paying attention, Lillie Paquette was listening.” – CBC Going beyond the headlines, this story – filmed in the fourteen months leading to the Revolution – highlights the years of mounting resentment against a U.S.-backed authoritar- ian government determined to stay in power. Embedded inside the turmoil, filmmaker Lillie Paquette followed key opposition figures and young democracy activists as they struggled against extraordinary odds and at great personal risk

“We Are Egypt is a film about the soul of a long suffering country” - Professor Tarek Masoud, Harvard University

SRP $24.98 / $99.00 with PPR Secondary Schools / $199.00 with PPR Universities Item #: TDC-DV-090 / UPC #: 826262009090 / ISBN #: 978-1-934708-99-6 / File Under: Documentary (Other) / Closed Captioned for the hearing impaired

Original Language: English and with English sub-titles Color • Run Time: 85 mins + 82 mins of extras ORDER TODAY / AVAILABLE APRIL 9, 2013

VL_ad_March_fin.indd 1 2/7/13 10:43 PM Video Newsbriefs

“Badlands,” “The Blob” 1970 documentary was produced for Blu-rays Debut on Criterion’s the Martin Luther March Slate King, Jr. Founda- tion by Ely Landau. In March, Criterion will present a A Filmed Record in- wide range of cinematic gems, kicking cludes rare footage off with the March 12 Blu-ray debut of of King’s speeches, the slimy 1958 cult classic The Blob (Blu- protests, and ar- ray: $39.95), featuring Steve McQueen rests, interspersed as a rebel battling the world’s meanest with scenes of oth- pile of Jell-O. Also slated for March 12 high-profile supporters and opponents is ’s chilling 1944 wartime of the cause, punctuated by heartfelt tes- suspense drama Ministry of Fear (DVD: timonials by some of Hollywood’s biggest $19.95, Blu-ray: $29.95), an adaptation stars. Both a history of the nonviolent of Graham Greene’s novel that finds Civil Rights movement and a portrait a former mental patient () of the movement’s inspiring leader, the caught in the web of a sinister under- film uses contemporary film/newsreel world when he stops at a seemingly and video/television footage to convey innocent village fair. Coming March 19 the boiling indignation of an oppressed is Terrence Malick’s brilliant 1973 debut, people and their revolutionary organiz- Badlands (DVD: $29.95, Blu-ray: $39.95), ing. Juxtaposed over this footage are dra- an impressionistic take on the notorious matic readings—co-directed by Sidney Charles Starkweather and Caril Ann Fu- Lumet and Joseph L. Mankiewicz—by gate killing spree of the late 1950s that actors including Harry Belafonte, Ruby stars and . Dee, , James Earl Jones, Also arriving March 19 is Michael Powell , Clarence Williams III, and Emeric Pressburger’s epic 1943 com- and . Selected for the edy-drama The Life and Death of Colonel National Film Registry in 1999, King: A Blimp (DVD: 2 discs, $29.95; Blu-ray: Filmed Record...Montgomery to Memphis $39.95), a stirring masterpiece starring premiered as a special “one-time-only as the indelible General event” on March 24, 1970 in over 600 Clive Candy, who barely survives four theaters throughout the U.S., and was decades of tumultuous British history nominated for an Academy Award in the only to see the world change irrevocably Best Documentary Feature category (see before his eyes. Slated for March 26 is review in VL-11/09). Robert Bresson’s intense 1956 prison- break masterpiece A Man Escaped (DVD: 2 discs, $29.95, Blu-ray: $39.95), a sus- Inception Media Group Bows penseful drama based on the memoirs of “The Origins of Oz” an imprisoned French resistance leader that follows the fictional Fontaine’s Inception Media Group’s The Origins single-minded pursuit of freedom. Also of Oz (DVD: $14.98) explores author L. coming on March 26 is Charlie Chaplin’s Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of devastatingly funny 1947 Oz, an American classic that features Monsieur Verdoux (DVD: $29.95, Blu- some of children’s fiction’s most beloved ray: $39.95), in which the Little Tramp characters and served as inspiration for appears shockingly against type as a the 1939 film (featuring pop culture’s 20th-century pirate who goes to extreme most iconic pair of shoes, now pre- lengths—including attempts to bump served at the Smithsonian’s National off a series of wealthy widows—to sup- Museum of American History). Pulling port his wife and child. the curtain back on Baum and how the events and people in his life figured in his work, The Origins of Oz examines 1970 Doc “King: A Filmed who Dorothy was modeled after, looks Record” Newly Re-Mastered at why a scarecrow and a tin man served as main characters, describes how the from Kino Classics 1893 World’s Fair sparked the From Kino Classics, the landmark conception of Emerald City, and much documentary King: A Filmed Record... more. Filmed at locations that inspired Montgomery to Memphis (DVD: 2 discs, the Land of Oz and featuring interviews $34.95) follows Dr. Martin Luther King, with authors, artists, fans, and members Jr. from 1955 to 1968, during his rise from of Baum’s family, this tells the regional activist to world-renowned lead- story of how this wildly popular book er of the Civil Rights movement. Newly was written by a man with heart, brains, restored by the Library of Congress, the and courage.

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 6 MARCH/APRIL 2013

Books Into Movies

The following films based on books natural experiences of a are slated to open during March and twentysomething short- April. Movie release dates are subject order cook. Directed by to change. Stephen Sommers, the film features Willem Coming in March Dafoe, , and Anton Yelchin as Oz: The Great Odd Thomas. and Powerful (Mar. 8), directed by Sam Looking Ahead Raimi, is inspired by L. Frank Baum’s 1900 Slated for May is classic The Wonderful The Great Gatsby, Wizard of Oz. A pre- adapted from F. Scott quel to both the book Fitzgerald’s 1925 clas- and the 1939 movie, sic novel. Directed by the fantasy adventure stars James Baz Luhrmann, the Franco as the titular magician, along film stars Leonardo Di- with Mila Kunis, Michelle Williams, Caprio, Jason Clarke, , and Zach Braff. Carey Mulligan, Isla Fisher, and Tobey Maguire. Admission (Mar. 22) is based on the Coming in June is 2009 Princeton-set Copperhead, based on novel by Jean Hanff Harold Frederic’s 1893 Korelitz. Directed novella The Copperhead. by Paul Weitz, the Directed by Ronald F. college-themed com- Maxwell, the drama edy stars Tina Fey, stars Billy Campbell, , Michael Angus Macfadyen, and Sheen, Lily Tomlin, Wallace Shawn, Peter Fonda. and Nat Wolff. Also slated for June The Host (Mar. 29) is , based on is based on Twilight ’s author Stephenie 16th-century romantic Meyer’s 2008 sci-fi comedy play. Directed romance novel. A by Joss Whedon, the story of aliens tak- film stars Amy Acker, ing over human bod- Alexis Denisof, Fran ies, director Andrew Kranz, and Jillian Morgese. Niccol’s adaptation stars , Diane Kruger, Max Also coming in June Irons, Frances Fisher, , is World War Z, based and Bokeem Woodbine. on Max Brooks’ 2006 horror novel, subtitled Coming in April “An Oral History of the Zombie War.” Directed T he C omp a ny by Marc Forster, the You Keep (Apr. 5, post-apocalyptic action in limited release) is drama stars Brad Pitt, based on Neil Gor- Matthew Fox, Eric West, and David don’s 2003 novel. Morse. Directed by Robert Redford, the politi- Originally slated cal action for March, the third stars Redford, Shia adaptation of Stephen LaBeouf, , Sam Elliott, King’s 1974 debut novel, , Terrence Howard, and Carrie, has now been Brendan Gleeson. moved to October. Directed by Kimberly Odd Thomas (Apr. 5) is adapted Peirce, the classic horror from the debut 2003 novel in author story stars Chloë Grace Dean Koontz’s Times bestsell- Moretz, , ing thriller series’ following the super- Judy Greer, and Gabriella Wilde.

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 8 MARCH/APRIL 2013 World Newsreels Online, 1929–1967

ABOUT THE COLLECTION

Alexander Street Press’s newest history collection brings to life the experiences of movie-goers from to Amsterdam and to during the World War II era. The collection features more than 500 hours of original newsreels, and will grow to include 8,000 meticulously transcribed and indexed reels. World Newsreels Online, 1929–1967 contains nine unique newsreel series, including: • Actualités—A 1942–1944 coproduction of the Vichy regime and the Germans. • France Libre Actualités—1944–1945 segments from an offshoot of the French Resistance. • The March of Time™—The full run of the American series that aired from 1929 to 1966. • Nippon News—Original 1940–1948 footage from Japan’s only WWII newsreel. • Polgygoon-Profl iti—1939–1945 Dutch fi lm clips illustrating how propaganda was presented to occupied countries. • United Newsreel—A 1942–1946 American weekly newsreel produced by the US Offi ce of War Information.

WHY STREAMING?

Advanced indexing allows viewers to search collections using numerous Quick links let users create permanent URLs and share content criteria, including title, historical event, place, person, fi lm subject, quickly with classes or colleagues on content management and keyword. systems or by email.

Digital video format Easy-to-use editing grants users 24/7 tools make it simple to access to content both choose your favorite onsite and off. segments and create quick clips or playlists.

Synchronized, searchable transcripts Video player can be run alongside each enlarged for full-screen video. viewing.

Streaming video can go where DVDs can’t— Subscriptions include straight to your PC, permission for in-class, Mac, or mobile device. on-campus, and remote viewing. Collections are carefully cultivated by subject experts to include only the highest quality, most relevant content.

Request a demo, trial, or price quote today [email protected] • 800.889.5937 • http://alexanderstreet.com Mixed Media

Mixed Media features new release March 17—March 23 April 14—April 20 information on upcoming video games and TV series on DVD/Blu- Gears of War: Judg- Injustice: Gods Among Us (Warner, ray, as well as notable older titles ment (Microsoft, X360: PS3/WiiU/X360: $59.99, Rated: T). This that are re-priced or new to DVD/ $59.99, Rated: M). In this fighting game from the creators ofMortal Blu-ray. third-person action game Kombat pits DC Comics characters against set prior to the previous each other, including , , Gears of War trilogy, play- Wonder Woman, The Flash, and others. Video Games ers control a troop of sol- diers led by Damon Baird Painkiller: Hell & Damnation (Nordic Note: Entertainment Software Ratings and Augustus “The Cole Train” Cole as Games, PS3/X360: $29.99, Rated: M). In Board (ESRB) ratings for video games are: E they attempt to save the besieged city of this remake of the classic first-person (Everyone), E10+ (Everyone 10+), T (Teen), Halvo Bay from a terrible new enemy. shooter PC game, players take on the role M (Mature), and RP (Rating Pending). of Daniel Garner, tasked with fighting his Some titles are not rated until just prior LEGO City Undercover (Nintendo, way past hordes of demons and fiends. to release date. WiiU: $49.99, Rated: E10+). In this third- person action game, players take on the April 21—April 27 March 3—March 9 role of Chase McCain, an undercover officer armed with clever disguises (each Dead Island: Riptide MLB 13: The Show (Sony, PS3: $59.99, with its own special abilities), who tries to (Deep Silver, PS3/X360: Rated: E). This update to the popular put a stop to the villain Rex Fury’s crime $49.99, Rated: M). In the Major League Baseball series includes wave in LEGO City. original Dead Island, hu- improvements to “Diamond Dynasty,” man survivors escaped “Franchise” and “Road to the Show” The Walking Dead: Survival Instinct in a helicopter to the modes for more realistic sports action. (Activision, PS3/X360: $49.99, Rated: M). safety of a military ship, Based on the AMC Emmy award-winning but when a furious storm strikes, the MLB 2K13 (2K Sports, PS3/X360: TV show, this first-person action game virus that launched the initial zombie $59.99, Rated: E). Delivering an authen- finds players stepping into the role of the plague suddenly spreads throughout tic baseball environment, this latest mysterious, crossbow-wielding survivor the crew in this first-person horror game entry in the popular MLB franchise lets Daryl Dixon as he makes his dangerous sequel. players develop winners in “My Player,” way across toward the supposed “Franchise,” and “Postseason” modes. safety of . Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen (Cap- com, PS3/X360: $39.99, Rated: M). In this Tomb Raider (Square March 24—March 30 expanded version of the original third- Enix, PS3/X360: $59.99, person action RPG, players embark on an Rated: M). This third- Army of Two: The Devil’s Cartel (EA, all-new quest set in the dark depths on a person origin story of PS3/X360: $59.99, Rated: M). In this third cursed isle. action heroine Lara game from the popular third-person co-op Croft features a blend action shooter series, players take on the (Namco Ban- of survival, stealth, ex- roles of two mercenaries working for Trans dai, PS3/X360: $59.99, ploration, and melee World Operations, tasked with protecting Rated: T). Players are cast and ranged combat gameplay as Croft a local politician in Mexico from drug as Captain James T. Kirk unravels the dark history of a forgotten cartels. and Spock in this original island. co-op cover-based third- BioShock Infinite (2K person shooter that pits March 10—March 16 Games, PS3/X360: $59.99, them against the Gorn, Rated: M). Set in 1912, and features the voices of rebooted Star Trek God of War: Ascen- the latest entry in the actors Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto. sion (Sony, PS3: $59.99, acclaimed first-person Rated: M). In this third- shooter franchise finds person action game—a players in the role of TV on DVD/Blu-ray prequel to the God of Booker DeWitt, a former War trilogy—Kratos is Pinkerton agent putting his life on the line Available Now sentenced to be chained to rescue the mysterious Elizabeth from the for an eternity, and must seek freedom sky city of Columbia. The Client List: The Complete First and redemption for his sins while pre- Season (Sony, DVD: 3 discs, $45.99). A paring to avenge his family. PGA Tour 14 (EA, PS3/ small-town single mother leads a X360: $59.99, Rated: E). Players take to double life as a prostitute in this 2012 Sniper: Warrior 2 (City In- the links with modern day pros including first season based on the 2010 TV movie teractive, PS3/X360: $59.99, Rated: M). Tiger Woods, Bubba Watson, and Dustin and starring , Cybill Players suit up as a special ops sniper Johnson—as well as legends such as Arnold Shepherd, and Loretta Devine. in this realistic first-person shooter Palmer and Jack Nicklaus—to compete sequel that ranges from Bosnia to the on over 25 championship courses under Cougar Town: The Complete Third Himalayas. dynamic weather conditions. Season (, DVD: 2 discs, $19.98).

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 10 MARCH/APRIL 2013 Janson Media wants to introduce you to... Told from the perspective of 5-year old Betsy, Betsy’s Kindergarten Adventures is designed to ease a child’s transition from the home setting to a school environment by generating interest and excitement about the kindergarten experience in young viewers. Broadcast nationally on PBS Kids, Betsy’s Kindergarten Adventures was voted one of TV Guide’s “Must See” shows in 2010 and 2011 and was awarded with a prestigious Parents’ Choice Award.

Betsy’s Kindergarten Adventures Vol. 1: MSRP: $19.95 • CATALOG# 20532 • UPC# 6-4603205329-6 Episode 101 How It All Began • Lost and Found Episode 102 The Farm Yard Field Trip • Betsy’s Green Thumb Episode 103 Boots, Boots, Boots • Team Player Episode 104 Camping Out • The Tooth Chart

Betsy’s Kindergarten Adventures Vol. 2: MSRP: $19.95 • CATALOG# 20533 • UPC# 6-4603205339-5 Episode 105 The Spy Who Taught Me • Show and Tell Episode 106 Betsy Buys a Vowel • Follow Those Directions Episode 107 Borrowed Time • Happy Earth Day Episode 108 Frisky Business • Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow

Betsy’s Kindergarten Adventures Vol. 3: MSRP: $19.95 • CATALOG# 20534 • UPC# 6-4603205349-4 Episode 109 Tickets Please! • Have You Got The Time? Episode 110 Growing, Growing, Gone • The Treasure Of Sierra Betsy Episode 111 Introducing The Post Office • A Berry Sore Stomach Episode 112 Lyrtle The Turtle • The Great Gingerbread Man Mystery

Betsy’s Kindergarten Adventures Vol. 4: MSRP: $19.95 • CATALOG# 20535 • UPC# 6-4603205359-3 Episode 113 Molly’s First Bike Ride • An Awfully Frightening Lightning Episode 114 Newton The New Kid • A Colorful Encounter Episode 115 A Whole Lotta Air • The Fire Department Episode 116 Responsibilities • Rules Of The Road

Winner of the 2010, 2011, and 2012 Parents’ Choice Award

“Betsy’s Kindergarten Adventures, a half-hour animated series airing on PBS, finds little Betsy grappling with emotions familiar to those about to enter kindergarten. She worries that other kids won’t like her, is intimidated by the size of the school and the rowdy kids on the playground, and is anxious as she tries to figure out where she fits into this big new world away from home. Betsy soon discovers she’s not the only one worrying – many new classmates feel the same way and, to their relief, they find much of the worrying unfounded. Betsy’s Kindergarten Adventures is full of adventure; the show’s storylines center around Betsy and her new circle of friends as they make exciting discoveries in the course of their school activities, such as going on field trips and taking care of the classroom pet. This program is more about character development than it is about academic development – although it is PBS so shows do include some very basic practice with letters and numbers. The series shines the spotlight on managing emotions, forming relationships, and taking pride in accomplishments. The is simple and clearly inspired by the kind of plain lines and bold colors you’d find in an actual kindergartner’s artwork. Betsy herself is a likable character, so little viewers are likely to trust her reassurances that kindergarten really is cool. ...interesting viewing for rising preschoolers, and especially helpful for little ones starting kindergarten.” - Parents’ Choice

Betsy’s Kindergarten Adventures Vol. 6 : MSRP: $19.95 • CATALOG# 20537 • UPC# 6-4603205379-1 Episode 121 Manners Please • Mystery at Lakeshore Farms Episode 122 Big and Little • Computer Fun Episode 123 Making Instruments • Dinosaur Dynasty Episode 124 Treasure Hunt • Betsy In Charge Betsy’s Kindergarten Adventures Vol. 5: MSRP: $19.95 ª • CATALOG# 20536 • UPC# 6-4603205369-2 Episode 117 To Tree or Not To Tree • Something Fishy Episode 118 Police Department • Visit From The Doctor Episode 119 Homework Rules • Bread and Butterflies Episode 120 All Washed Up • Space Rangers Broadcast nationwide Betsy’s Kindergarten Adventures Collection 6 DVDs MSRP: $99.95 • CATALOG# 20538 • UPC# 6-4603205389-0 on PBS Kids

AVAILABLE FROM ALL MAJOR DISTRIBUTORS View trailers online: www.janson.com • [email protected] www.janson.com Become a fan on www.facebook.com/jansonmedia www.youtube.com/jansonmedia A fortysomething divorcee steps back into Hit & Miss (BFS, DVD: fantasy miniseries stars Kimberly Wil- the dating world—with much-younger 3 discs, $39.98). Chloë liams-Paisley, John Larroquette, Dianne men—in this 2012 third season from the Sevigny stars as a trans- Wiest, Ed O’Neill, and Ann-Margret. Golden Globe-nominated series starring gender contract killer in Courteney Cox, Josh Hopkins, and Busy this 2012 six-part British- : The Ark in Space—Spe- Philipps. produced drama series, cial Edition (BBC, DVD: 2 discs, $34.99). nominated for a GLAAD The Doctor (Tom Baker) stumbles across Game of Thrones: The Media Award. a space station where Earth survivors lie Complete Second Sea- in cryogenic suspension in this four-part son (HBO, DVD: 5 discs, Murdoch Mysteries: Season 5 (Acorn, story arc from the 1974-75 12th season of $59.99; Blu-ray/DVD DVD: 4 discs, $59.99; Blu-ray: 3 discs, the popular sci-fi series. Also newly avail- Combo: 7 discs, $79.98). $59.99). Yannick Bisson stars as Detective able is Doctor Who: The Aztecs—Special Based on George R.R. William Murdoch in this 2012 fifth season Edition (DVD: 2 discs, $34.99), starring Martin’s A Song of Ice and of the Victorian-era Toronto-set series William Hartnell as the Doctor. Fire fantasy novel series, that spotlights scientific advances—such this 2012 Emmy-winning sophomore as ballistics and profiling—used to solve Father Dowling Mys- season stars Emilia Clarke, Peter Dinklage, crimes. teries: The Final Sea- and Kit Harington. son (Paramount, DVD: 5 My Big Fat Gypsy discs, $59.98). Tom Bosley Road to Avonlea: The Complete Wedding: Seasons 1 & stars as the titular Chica- Seventh Season (Sullivan, DVD: 4 discs, 2 + Specials (New Video, go priest turned detective $69.98). Featuring guest appearances DVD: 4 discs, $29.99). in this 1990-91 third and by Ryan Gosling, Eugene Levy, and Spotlighting the nuptial final season of the Emmy- Dianne Wiest, this set includes the 1996 preparations of various nominated crime-drama series, also featur- seventh and final season of executive brides within gypsy cul- ing Mary Wickes and Tracy Nelson. producer Kevin Sullivan’s spin-off series ture, this compilation from the popular books by Lucy Maud includes 12 episodes and specials from the Hercules: The Legendary Journeys— Montgomery. 2011-12 seasons of the TLC-aired series. Season Four (Universal, DVD: 5 discs, $26.98). Mighty protagonist Hercules The Six Million Dollar Man: Season 3 Regular Show: Party Pack (Warner, goes up against a variety of immortals, (Universal, DVD: 6 discs, $39.98). Starring DVD: $19.95). Aired on the Cartoon Net- demons, armies, and monsters in this Lee Majors as an agent with nuclear-pow- work, this set features 16 episodes from 1997-98 fourth season of the fantasy ad- ered appendages, this 1975-76 third season various seasons of the Emmy-nominated venture series starring Kevin Sorbo as the of the action series features guest appear- series following a blue jay named Mordecai Greek hero. ances by Sonny Bono, , and a raccoon called Rigby who work as Erik Estrada, Lou Gossett Jr., and André twentysomething groundskeepers. Jersey Shore: Season Six (Paramount, the Giant. DVD: 4 discs, $29.99). Featuring a pregnant Thorne: Sleepyhead / Scaredy Cat Snooki and a sober Situation, this sixth and March 5 (Anchor Bay, DVD: 2 discs, $29.98). Star- final 2012 season of the MTV-aired reality ring David Morrissey as savvy Detective series is a bit more relaxed than earlier wild Dalziel & Pascoe: Sea- Inspector Tom Thorne, this compilation escapades in Seaside Heights, NJ. son 7 (BBC, DVD: 2 discs, of episodes from the mystery series based $34.98). Grouchy cop- on the novels by Mark Billingham includes Law & Order: Crimi- per Andy Dalziel and his 2010’s Sleepyhead and Scaredy Cat, also star- nal Intent—The Final courteous partner Peter ring and Natascha McElhone. Year (Shout! Factory, Pascoe (Warren Clarke DVD: 2 discs, $29.99). and Colin Buchanan) are ’s House of Payne, Volume Stars Vincent D’Onofrio back in this 2002 seventh Ten (Lionsgate, DVD: 3 discs, $29.98). and Kathryn Erbe return season of the long-running mystery series, Starring LaVan Davis, Allen Payne, and to the squad in this 2011 winner of an Edgar Allan Poe award. Cassi Davis, this 10th compilation from 10th and final season of the popular TBS series includes 20 episodes the crime series, which includes guest ap- Duck Dynasty: Season 2, Volume 1 (193-212). pearances by Cynthia Nixon, Patti Smith, (Lionsgate, DVD: 2 discs, $19.98). This and James Van Der Beek. first volume from the 2012 sophomore Wagon Train: The Complete Season season of the A&E reality series follows Six (Timeless, DVD: 10 discs, $59.99). The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp: the Robertson family of Louisiana as they Guest stars for this 1962-63 sixth season The Complete Season Two (Inception, run their successful duck call business in of the Emmy-nominated drama DVD: 5 discs, $24.98). Hugh O’Brian stars the bayou. include Jane Wyman, Beau Bridges, and as the legendary Wild West hero in this Joan Fontaine. 1956-57 sophomore season of the Emmy- Hidden (BFS, DVD: 2 discs, $29.98). nominated adventure series. Set in London and Paris, this four-part March 12 2011 crime-thriller miniseries stars Philip The Mob Doctor: The Complete Series Glenister, Thekla Reuten, Anna Chancellor, The 10th Kingdom (Mill Creek, DVD: (Sony, DVD: 3 discs, $35.99). Starring and David Suchet. 3 discs, $9.98). This Emmy-winning 2000 Jordana Spiro as a surgical resident who

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 12 MARCH/APRIL 2013

trades her medical expertise to a mafia episodes from the 2012 eighth season of $29.95). Presented and narrated by Lee boss in order to protect her brother, this the series. Marvin, this 1963-64 series showcases compilation includes the entire short-lived dramatic re-creations of real-life crime 2012-13 series. A Mind to Kill: Com- cases. plete Collection (Acorn, Pioneers of Television: Season 3 (PBS, DVD: 11 discs, $79.99). MADtv: The Complete Second Season DVD: 2 discs, $24.99). Narrated by Kelsey This compilation includes (Shout! Factory, DVD: 4 discs, $29.95). Grammer, this 2013 third season of the the complete run of the Developed in the humorous style of the documentary chronicling the evolution 1994-2002 Welsh detec- titular magazine, this 1996-97 second sea- of popular television features four tive drama starring Philip son of the late-night sketch comedy series episodes that focus on funny ladies, prime- Madoc as DCI Noel Bain. stars Debra Wilson, Artie Lange, Nicole time soaps, superheroes, and miniseries. Sullivan, and Bryan Callen. No Job for a Lady: The Complete Ripper Street (BBC, Collection (Acorn, DVD: 3 discs, $59.99). Men at Work: The DVD: 3 discs, $29.98; Starring Penelope Keith as a newly-elected Complete First Season Blu-ray: 2 discs, $34.98). member of Parliament, this 1990-92 Brit- (Sony, DVD: 2 discs, Inspector Edmund Reid com also features George Baker and Mark $35.99). A group of (Matthew Macfadyen) Kingston. friends balance dating runs the H Divi- adventures with their sion police force under Quincy, M.E.: Season 5 (Shout! Fac- jobs at a magazine in this the cloud of the uncaught tory, DVD: 6 discs, $39.98). Featuring Jack 2012 first season of the murderer Jack the Ripper in this 2013 Klugman as the titular coroner who takes TBS comedy series starring Danny Mas- first season of the Victorian-era mystery an active role in crime investigations, this terson and Michael Cassidy. series. 1979-80 fifth season of the Emmy-nomi- nated series includes guest appearances Midsomer Murders: Tom Barnaby’s Saving the Ocean with Carl Safina: by Robert Loggia, Dennis Haysbert, and Last Cases (Acorn, DVD: 15 discs, $149.99). Season 1 (PBS, DVD: 2 discs, $29.99). Melora Hardin. This compilation from the long-running Marine biologist and Blue Ocean Institute mystery series based on the novels by Caro- founder Carl Safina hosts this 2012 first March 26 line Graham features the final stories star- season of the PBS-aired series focusing on ring John Nettles as DCI Tom Barnaby. solutions to sea problems such as pollution The Borgias: The Sec- and overfishing. ond Season (Paramount, Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries: Series DVD: 3 discs, $54.99; 1 (Acorn, DVD: 4 discs, $59.99; Blu-ray: 3 : Somewhere at Sea— Blu-ray: 3 discs, $65.99). discs, $59.99). Starring Essie Davis as 1920s The Complete Series (BFS, DVD: 3 discs, Showcasing the rise to Melbourne sleuth Phryne Fisher, this 2012 $39.99). Broadcast from 2010-12, this power of Pope Alexander first series is based on the novels by Kerry compilation of three BBC Four travel series’ VI and his family, this Greenwood. features actor Timothy Spall and his wife 2012 sophomore season Shane as they travel around the British of the Emmy and Gemini award-winning Mystery Science Theater 3000 XXVI Coast in a Dutch barge. series stars , Holliday Grainger, (Shout! Factory, DVD: 4 discs, $59.98). and Colm Feore. The MST3K gang picks apart sci-fi films Xena—Warrior Prin- including The Magic Sword, Alien from L.A., cess: Season Four (Uni- The Carol Burnett Show: This Time Danger! Death Ray, and The Mole People in versal, DVD: 5 discs, Together (, DVD: 6 discs, $59.95). this most recent 26th volume from the $26.99). Set in ancient This compilation from the 1967-78 variety snark-filled series. , female fighter series features 17 episodes. Xena (Lucy Lawless) de- Veep: The Complete fends people in need in Continuum: Season One (Universal, First Season (HBO, DVD: this 1998-99 fourth sea- DVD: 2 discs, $44.98; Blu-ray: 2 discs, 2 discs, $39.98; Blu-ray/ son of the Emmy-winning action-adven- $49.98). Rachel Nichols stars as a futuristic DVD Combo: 3 discs, ture series. cop who is forced by a terrorist group to $49.99). Julia Louis- time travel back to 2012 from the year Dreyfus stars as a former March 19 2077 in this 2012 first season of the Syfy- senator who becomes aired series. second-in-command at Chance in a Million: Complete Collec- the White House in this 2012 debut season tion (Acorn, DVD: 3 discs, $59.99). A man’s Johnny Sokko and His Flying Robot: of the HBO series that also features Anna life is marked by major coincidences in this The Complete Series (Shout! Factory, Chlumsky, Tony Hale, and Matt Walsh. 1984-86 comedy series that stars Simon DVD: 4 discs, $39.99). Young Johnny Sokko Callow and . (Bobbie Byers) uses his voice to control his April 2 flying giant robot against monsters in this Ghost Hunters: Season Eight, Part 1 1967-68 adventure series. Dirk Gently (Acorn, DVD: 2 discs, (Image, DVD: 4 discs, $24.98). The Atlantic $39.99). Based on the books by Douglas Paranormal Society team of supernatural Lawbreaker: The Complete Televi- Adams, this 2010-12 comedy crime series investigators returns in this first set of sion Series (Shout! Factory, DVD: 4 discs, follows the cases of the Holistic Detective

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 14 MARCH/APRIL 2013 edu Best Sellers and New Releases from

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To purchase or to learn more about other Kino Lorber Edu Titles, Visit: www.kinolorberedu.com Not available on home video. Email: [email protected] To inquire about exhibition Call: 212-629-6880 Fax: 212-714-0871 or digital site licenses, @kinolorberedu kinolorberedu.com please contact us at 212-629-6880 Agency, and stars Stephen Mangan, Dar- Sallis and Bill Owen are back—with The Restless Gun: The Complete ren Boyd, and Helen Baxendale. Frank Thornton joining the cast—in this Series (Timeless, DVD: 8 discs, $59.99). A compilation of episodes from the 1998 drifting retired gunfighter finds adventure Route 66: The Complete Fourth Sea- 19th season of the long-running comedy in the American Southwest in this 1957-59 son (Shout! Factory, DVD: 5 discs, $29.95). series revolving around the escapades of series starring John Payne. Martin Milner and Glenn Corbett are back an elderly trio. in this 1963-64 fourth and final season of Touched By An Angel: The Seventh the road adventure series, featuring guest Parade’s End (BBC, Season (Paramount, DVD: 7 discs, $59.98). stars such as , Lon Chaney DVD: 2 discs, $24.98). A triumvirate of angels (Roma Downey, Jr., , and . Based on the tetralogy Della Reese, John Dye) help inspire people by Ford Madox Ford, this on Earth in this 2000-01 seventh season Tombstone Territory: The Complete Theatre 625-aired four- that features guest appearances by Ray First Season (Timeless, DVD: 4 discs, part 1964 WWI-era mini- Walston, Marla Gibbs, and Patti LuPone. $29.95). Pat Conway stars as a sheriff in series starring this 1957-58 debut season of the Western and Ronald Hines features Looking Ahead action series. “Some Do Not…” “No More Parades,” “A Man Could Stand Up,” and “Last Post.” Coming in May is the April 9 debut season of Percep- Spies of Warsaw (BBC, DVD: $19.98, tion, third season of Riz- Boss: Season Two (Lionsgate, DVD: Blu-ray: $24.98). Based on the spy novel zoli & Isles, fifth sea- 3 discs, $39.98; Blu-ray: 2 discs, $39.98). by Alan Furst, this 2013 action-adventure sons of Flashpoint and Chicago Mayor Tom Kane (Kelsey Gram- two-part drama set in pre-WWII Europe Fringe, sixth seasons of mer in an Emmy-winning role) attempts stars , Janet Montgomery, Have Gun—Will Travel to hide a secret illness and prepares for and Julian Glover. and Private Practice, an election in this 2012 second and final eighth season of , and the season of the -aired series. Stoney Burke: The Complete Television complete series’ of Beetlejuice and the Series (Timeless, DVD: 6 discs, $39.99). Ro- Doctor Who spin-off K-9. Slated for June is The deo rider Stoney Burke (Jack Lord) strives to the first season ofThe Newsroom. Show: The Complete be a champion in this 32-episode 1962-63 First Season (Image, Blu- Western series, featuring guest appearances ray: 3 discs, $59.98). The by , Harry Dean Stanton, Re-priced or New to DVD/Blu-ray 1961-62 first season of Cloris Leachman, and Dyan Cannon. the family comedy se- Missy Mila Twisted ries is newly available on Sugartown (Acorn, DVD: $29.99). A Tales, Volume 1 and Vol- high-definition Blu-ray. struggling seaside candy factory is at the ume 2 (Organa, DVD: center of this 2011 Scottish comedy series $19.95 each, web: organa. Family Ties: The Sixth Season (Para- starring Shaun Dooley, Tom Ellis, and Mi- com). Featuring imagina- mount, DVD: 4 discs, $45.98). Starring randa Raison. tive stories told by 8-year- Michael J. Fox, Michael Gross, and Mer- old tomboy Mila, these edith Baxter, this 1987-88 sixth season of Women in Love (BBC, DVD: $24.98). 2007 volumes from the the features guest stars Courteney Adapted from D.H. Lawrence’s novels The animated series include twisted Cox and Julia Louis-Dreyfus. Rainbow (1915) and Women in Love (1920), episodes such as “The Houses of the Pig this 2011 dramatic miniseries stars Rachael Brothers” and “Toadette, the Frog.” Inside Men (BBC, Stirling, Rosamund Pike, Rory Kinnear, and DVD: 2 discs, $29.99). Joseph Mawle. Philosophers: Debates and Dialogues Three colleagues at a (Icarus Films, DVD: 4 discs, $498, web: cash-counting facility April 23 icarusfilms.com). Compiling a series of plan a dangerous heist in one-on-one debates as part of the 1971 this 2012 crime drama Maverick: The Complete Second Dutch initiative known as the Interna- that stars Steven Mack- Season (Warner, DVD: 6 discs, $39.99). tional Philosophers Project, this collection intosh, Ashley Walters, James Garner stars in this Emmy-winning includes conversations between Noam and Warren Brown. Western action series’ 1958-59 sophomore Chomsky and Michel Foucault, Alfred season, with guest appearances by Martin Ayer and Arne Naess, Karl Popper and Merlin: The Complete Fifth Season Landau, Slim Pickens, and . John Eccles, and Leszek Kolakowski and (BBC, DVD: 4 discs, $49.98; Blu-ray: 3 Henri Lefebvre. discs, $59.98). Set in the realm of Camelot, Mr. Selfridge (PBS, this 2012 fifth season of the BAFTA-nomi- DVD: 3 discs, $49.99; Undersea Edens (Inception, DVD: nated medieval fantasy series follows the Blu-ray: 3 discs, $54.99). $24.98). Produced by the Smithsonian destiny of the iconic sorcerer (played by Based on the biographical Channel, this 2008 six-part series on Colin Morgan). book Shopping, Seduction southern oceans around New Guinea, and Mr. Selfridge by Lindy Australia, South Georgia Island, and be- April 16 Woodhead, this 2013 se- yond includes “Coral Kingdoms,” “Desert ries stars as to Reef,” “The Frozen Isle,” “The Majestic Last of the Summer Wine: Vintage Wisconsin-born London department store South,” “Predators Paradise,” and “Rain- 1998 (BBC, DVD: 2 discs, $34.99). Peter magnate Harry Gordon Selfridge. forest to Reef.”

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 16 MARCH/APRIL 2013 VL_Ad_0313_VisionVideo 2/1/13 11:04 AM Page 1

For the Glory Proof Through the Night The Calling The true-life story of professional soccer player In the 200 years since Francis Scott Key first wrote The Calling reveals candid portraits of three Kurt Kuykendall is told in this riveting drama the words to “The Star-Spangled Banner” on the people drawn to ministry in a foreign land. starring Jason Burkey of October Baby. Facing the back of a letter, they have inspired millions. The Orlando Castillo is a young man from a death of his older brother, the rejection of his hope and joy expressed in the American National prosperous family who wishes to ‘live simply’ and perfectionist father, his mother’s crippling Anthem are so moving that more than five million serve the poor despite his parents’ reservations. alcoholism, and his own failure to make it as a people signed petitions for its official adoption. Yet Mother Mary Elizabeth is a woman torn between college basketball player, Kurt is driven to an within those words is an expression of faith and her call and the emotional needs of her family. emotional and spiritual crossroad. At the bidding gratitude for deliverance. Told though the words of Father Phillip Scott is a priest striving to establish a of an insistent friend, Kurt reluctantly tries out for eyewitnesses and those who knew him best, this fledgling mission in Peru. As their stories unfold, his fraternity’s soccer team and becomes an presentation tells the story not only of the song, but we see the blessings as well as the challenges that overnight sensation. In time, his skill as a of the man and the beliefs that inspired it. their ministries entail. This is a film about commit- goalkeeper leads him all the way to represent USA Documentary, 56 minutes. ment to God, loyalty to family, and the faith to in the Olympics. Drama, 106 minutes. DVD - #501449D, $19.99, UPC 7 27985 01449 4 discover God’s will. Documentary, 77 minutes. DVD - #501498D, $19.99, UPC 7 27985 01498 2 DVD - #501502D, $19.99, UPC 7 27985 01502 6

Captivated What God Hath Wrought The Third Day Everywhere we go, we are surrounded by screens. The “Jesus Movement” of the late 1960’s and early What proof do we have that the resurrection Most would agree that we are a media saturated 1970’s is considered one of the greatest spiritual really happened? This intriguing documentary society, but what effect is all this media having on revivals in American history. Its epicenter was a digs deep into the biblical and historical accounts us individually and culturally? People of all ages church in Costa Mesa, , called Calvary and explores the main theories: Did the disciples are reporting that their unchecked media Chapel, pastored by Chuck Smith. This historical steal the body? Did they hallucinate and only consumption has led to disconnection, documentary tells the story of Calvary Chapel and the imagine they had met the risen Jesus, or did they discontentment and captivity. Captivated features Jesus Movement and traces its impact on Christianity create a myth in order to keep the movement insights from media experts, as well as personal in the U.S. The DVD includes archival footage of that going? Scholars take a hard look and offer stories from individuals and families who have era as well as interviews with Chuck Smith, Franklin honest, thought-provoking answers. The Third escaped media addiction and learned to make Graham, “Jesus Music” band members, and others Day is an excellent resource for both skeptics discerning choices about their use of media who talk about their experiences in the “Movement.” and believers alike. Documentary, 85 minutes. technology. Documentary, 107 minutes. We also hear from members of Chuck Smith’s family. DVD - #501501D, $19.99, UPC 7 27985 01501 9 DVD - #501496D, $19.99, UPC 7 27985 01496 8 Documentary, 105 minutes. DVD - #501490D, $19.99, UPC 7 27985 01490 6 Vision Video PO Box 540 OUR UNCONDITIONAL GUARANTEE: Worcester, PA 19490 If, for any reason, a product does not meet your expectations, return 1-800-523-0226 • 610-584-3500 it to us, and we will exchange it or give you a refund. All DVDs are Fax: 610-584-6643 guaranteed against any defects. Available from Baker and Taylor, E-mail: [email protected] Midwest Tape, or directly from Vision Video. Web: www.visionvideo.com Video Movies

promise some great overarching revelation, (Matthew Macfadyan), has This section features reviews of studio, inde- but in the end merely suggest that life is made been blatantly unfaithful. pendent, and foreign feature films. Each review up of decisions—or, as one character advises, On the train, Anna meets includes pricing information, as well as running “when you come to a fork in the road, take Countess Vronsky (Olivia it”—hardly a profound observation. 360 Williams), and sparks fly time, rating, subtitling information, and street begins with an Eastern European refugee when she encounters the dates for yet-to-be-released titles. Most titles who becomes a Viennese prostitute, hired by Countess’s son, strutting reviewed here are widely available through a British businessman while his own wife is cavalry officer Count Vron- most distributors. ending an affair. The girlfriend of the wife’s sky (Aaron Taylor-Johnson). Soon, even her ex-lover decides to return home to , but staid, influential husband, Alexei Karenin HHHH= Excellent meets a sex offender along the way, as well as (Jude Law), is aware of their scandalous a troubled Brit traveling to identify the body flirtation. Risking not only her aristocratic HHH= Good of a girl who might be his estranged daughter. reputation in society but access to her be- A Russian who is the driver for a mob boss and loved, 8-year-old son, Anna impetuously HH= Fair his unhappy wife are also tossed into the mix. embarks on a dangerous liaison that results H= Poor Unfortunately, the characters here are barely in her pregnancy. Meanwhile, Oblonsky’s sketches, and even fine actors like Anthony best friend, a gentleman farmer named Hopkins, Jude Law, Rachel Weisz, and Ben Levin (Domhnall Gleeson), is smitten with Foster cannot bring them to life. Considering Dolly’s younger sister, vacuous Princess Kitty 3 Blind Saints HHH its lofty pedigree, 360 is a huge disappoint- (Alicia Vikander), who only has eyes for the FilmWorks, 89 min., PG, DVD: ment. Not recommended. (F. Swietek) philandering Vronsky. In this overwrought, $19.98 superficially intellectual, highly stylized ver- If Moe, Larry, and Curly Alps HH1/2 sion, adapted by Tom Stoppard and directed had made a Christian com- Kino Lorber, 93 min., in Greek by Joe Wright, much of the tragedy unfolds edy, the result might have w/English subtitles, not rated, in a huge, magnificent theater where the looked like 3 Blind Saints, DVD: $29.95 various self-consciously aware players fall in a kooky and occasionally A surrealistic story told and out of love onstage, backstage, and on poignant story of three middle-aged pals in an incongruously realis- catwalks. The spectacular ballroom dance who are arrested while passing through a tic style, Greek filmmaker numbers are intricately choreographed and hick town called Rocky Road. After a judge Yorgos Lanthimos’s Alps in- dazzlingly costumed, yet the hollow artifice puts Sam (Richard Speight, Jr.), Jamal (Elijah volves an intense quartet—a paramedic (Aris at the center of the film makes it difficult to Rock), and Frankie (Stelio Savante) into the Servetalis), a nurse (Aggeliki Papoulia), a gym- make any emotional connection with the custody of the manipulative Rusty Pickens nast (Ariane Labed), and her coach (Johnny characters’ indiscretions. Anna Karenina is an (Barry Corbin), the trio find themselves Vekris)—who perform an unusual service opulent film (nabbing Oscar nominations for forced to do “community service” by play- for the recently bereaved. They pretend to cinematography, production design, and cos- ing the new ministers of Rocky Road’s only be the departed, having memorized facts tume design) that provides a feast for the eyes church. Rusty’s plan is to have the men keep and bits of remembered dialogue that they but starves the soul. Optional. (S. Granger) church services going so he can steal money recite in short scenes, which they perform from Sunday collections. When—against all along with the mourners. A crisis occurs in Any Day Now HHH odds—the guys prove a success at drawing this oddball outfit (all are nicknamed after Music Box, 97 min., R, DVD: in the generous faithful, the arrangement peaks in the Alps) when the nurse becomes $24.95, Blu-ray: $29.95, Apr. looks like a win-win. The only problem: Sam so obsessed with taking over the life of a 23 falls for a Christian woman (Audrey Matos) severely injured tennis player that she lies ’s flam- and feels terrible both about lying to her and to her colleagues, telling them that the girl boyant central performance having no faith of his own. Filmmaker John has died and insisting on impersonating her elevates what might have Eschenbaum nicely balances the relationship despite the fact that she’s still alive. She also been a typical socially con- drama with the funnier side of the ministry finds the relationship with her own father scious message movie into a touching human business (oddball parishioners, etc.), along deteriorating (unless, of course, the scenes drama. Cumming stars as Rudy, the headliner with plenty of slapstick antics involving the between them are actually encounters with in a drag act at a ‘70s Los Angeles gay bar. principals (the most outrageous of which just another client). From a literal standpoint Tough-talking but sensitive, Rudy picks up involves an encounter with God in a Teletub- the premise of Alps is preposterous, but Lan- Paul (), a sad-sack patron bies-like pastoral heaven). Likely to appeal thimos uses it simply to raise questions about who turns out to be a closeted assistant dis- to Christian audiences, this indie effort is life and death, reality and illusion—although trict attorney, and the pair become friends. recommended. (T. Keogh) the answers, of course, remain ambiguous When his drug-addict neighbor is arrested, at the close. Intriguing if not altogether her son—who has Down’s syndrome—es- 360 HH satisfying, this is a strong optional purchase. capes his social worker and takes refuge Magnolia, 110 min., R, DVD: (F. Swietek) with Rudy, leading him to seek Paul’s help $26.98, Blu-ray: $29.98 in securing custody of the boy. For a time Although the title might Anna Karenina HH the trio form an unconventional family, recall La Ronde—Arthur Universal, 130 min., R, DVD: $29.98, Blu-ray: although the men must conceal their sexual Schnitzler’s play (filmed by $34.98 preferences in order to remain an appropri- Max Ophuls in 1950) about Based on Leo Tolstoy’s epic 1877 novel ate foster couple. Eventually, however, their a romantically intercon- set in Imperial Russia, Anna Karenina opens secret comes out, and their chance of staying nected circle of couples—it’s not always love with the titular character () together becomes a very long shot, given the that makes the world go round in director arriving in Moscow from St. Petersburg to prejudices of the judicial system represented Fernando Meirelles’ much darker 360. The comfort distraught sister-in-law Dolly (Kelly by a hard-line judge, a merciless prosecutor, interlocking tales of disparate characters Macdonald) after Anna’s brother, Oblonsky and Paul’s conniving boss. Any Day Now

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 18 MARCH/APRIL 2013 could easily have opted for bathos, but it’s res- to real-world responsibilities—winning his (Carlyle), a onetime U.K. cued by Cumming’s fearless, ferocious turn, freedom seems perpetually unlikely. But he pop star who retired from and by the sure hand of director Travis Fine, finally takes an encouraging step forward music and has been liv- who sets the story against a gritty, subdued after earning a probationary job at the city ing in Southern California backdrop that keeps it grounded in reality. morgue of Vienna, helping to transport for years. Working on a Recommended. (F. Swietek) corpses and preparing them for open casket farm owned by the digni- viewing, burial, and cremation. One day, fied Warren (A Martinez), Argo HHHH Roman sees a female corpse in a body bag Lachlan is a personable, Warner, 120 min., R, DVD: bearing the name “Kogler,” and wonders if seemingly happy laborer $28.98, Blu-ray: $35.99 she could be his mother, who abandoned whose bright smile draws customers on farm- Director and star Ben him to state care shortly after he was born. ers’ market days. But a DUI arrest threatens Affleck adroitly combines a Roman is relieved when he discovers that he both Lachlan’s freedom and his immigration compelling, true-life story is not related to the dead woman, but this status, overturning his life and opening old with relevant, politically- only prompts him to investigate his past and wounds with an ex-wife (Kathleen Wilhoite), charged suspense and stra- search for his real mother. A remarkable tale a teenage daughter he barely knows (Savan- tegically placed humor in this intense and of family relations with an understated focus nah Lathem), and unfinished business tied to exceptionally intelligent thriller. During the on deep-rooted pain, regret, and the question the death of his brother. Carlyle’s fans will be 1979 Iran hostage crisis, six besieged Ameri- of forgiveness, this is highly recommended. happy to see him in a starring role, especially can embassy workers in Tehran seek refuge (J. Shannon) in a film boasting a smart, nuanced narrative. in the home of the Canadian Ambassador, Recommended. (T. Keogh) Ken Taylor (Victor Garber). Knowing the Brooklyn Brothers Beat HH workers will be executed if found by militant the Best HH1/2 Chasing Mavericks Iranians—along with the Ambassador and his Oscilloscope, 97 min., not rated, Fox, 117 min., PG, DVD: wife—the Canadian and American govern- DVD: $29.98 $22.98, Blu-ray: $29.99 ments, under the direction of then-President In the era of Judd Apatow “We all come from the Jimmy Carter, turn to a CIA espionage advi- buddy comedies about sea, but we are not all of the sor (Bryan Cranston), who calls in covert boy-men, Brooklyn Broth- sea,” intones Gerard Butler, extraction operative Tony Mendez (Affleck). ers Beat the Best—written, introducing the tragic true Realizing the worldwide appeal of the motion directed by, and co-starring Ryan O’Nan—is story of Jay Moriarity, an picture industry, Mendez inventively enlists a lower-key entry in the . O’Nan plays intrepid surfer who survived a 1994 wipe- the help of Hollywood makeup artist John Alex, a struggling singer-songwriter whose out that landed him on the cover of Surfer Chambers (John Goodman), who recruits dark, moody songs get him kicked out of magazine, only to die in 2001 in a free-diving accident in the Maldives, one day before his flamboyant producer Lester Siegel (Alan a program for mentally challenged public 23rd birthday. The blustery Butler plays rug- Arkin). Forming Studio Six Productions, they school kids. At his nadir, Alex teams up with ged California surfing daredevil Rick “Frosty” pretend to be scouting desert locations for an Jim (Michael Weston), a weird, experimental Hesson, who reluctantly agrees to train and upcoming sci-fi . Mendez then musician who lives with his ornery grandfa- has to convince the terrified and bewildered mentor (in only 12 weeks) his determined, ther and boasts a vast collection of keyboard Americans (Tate Donovan, Clea DuVall, Scoot wave-riding 15-year-old Santa Cruz neighbor, instruments made for children. Strangers to McNairy, Rory Cochrane, Christopher Den- Moriarity (newcomer Jonny Weston), to ride one another, the two men embark on a road ham, and Kerry Bishe) to assume new Cana- some of the most gigantic waves on Earth: the tour in an ancient hatchback, proving a suc- dian aliases and “showbiz” crew identities, as monster, mythic Mavericks at Half Moon Bay cess at club dates—despite all odds—as they director, producer, screenwriter, cameraman, during El Niño. Filmmaker Michael Apted, combine Alex’s guitar-driven tunes with Jim’s etc. Will capricious Iranian officials and sus- who took over from director electronic noodling. The duo are soon joined picious Revolutionary Guards at the airport when the latter fell ill during shooting, by Cassidy (Arielle Kebbel), who not only likes really fall for this bizarre, farfetched charade? utilizes the ample skills of cinematographer their sound but also begins to handle the One of the year’s best, this multiple-Oscar Bill Pope—as well as a group of fearless stunt guys’ rudimentary marketing—and enters nominee is highly recommended. Editor’s doubles—to capture spectacular open-ocean into a relationship with the resistant Alex, Choice. (S. Granger) footage, but no one can rise above the generic, bringing tension to the arrangement. O’Nan formulaic script: an overly-reverential treat- directs with an eye toward a strong visual ment that touches on but never delves into Breathing HHH1/2 joke while also sprinkling his dialogue with Kino Lorber, 94 min., in perseverant Moriarity’s relationships with German w/English subtitles, some hilarious lines (one very effective scene an absentee father, perpetually stressed- not rated, DVD: $29.95 revolves around a club owner who expects out/alcoholic single mom (), Veteran Austrian actor the Brooklyn Brothers to be joined by a rock best buddy (Devin Crittenden), attractive Karl Markovics wrote and superstar). But the film also suffers from fiancée/wife (Leven Rambin), and wealthy directed this sensitive, emo- some lengthy exposition and numbing back bully/drug dealer (Taylor Handley). Bland and tionally moving portrait stories about the characters. Still, O’Nan and uninspiring, this is an optional purchase, at of a teenager struggling to rise above his the rest of the cast often serve up lively en- best. (S. Granger) tragic past. Nineteen-year-old Roman Kogler tertainment, making this indie film a strong (Thomas Schubert) has endured a of optional purchase. (T. Keogh) Chicken with Plums HHH disadvantage: charged with murder (for an Sony, 91 min., in French w/English subtitles, PG- accident) and halfway through his sentence California Solo HHH 13, DVD: $30.99 in a juvenile detention center, Roman awaits Strand, 95 min., not rated, DVD: $27.99, Mar. 5 Directors and Vincent his next probation hearing with little hope Scottish actor Robert Carlyle is the virtuoso Paronnaud, both graphic novelists, reunite of release after being denied probation in star of California Solo, an American indie film for a second story drawn from Satrapi’s previous hearings. Because Roman has no written and directed by Marshall Lewy. Shot family history, switching from ’s family—and ongoing difficulty adjusting in and around L.A., the story follows Lachlan black-and-white animation to live-action. In

MARCH/APRIL 2013 19 VIDEO LIBRARIAN pre-Revolutionary Tehran, certain in this atmospheric and suspenseful join her there, not realizing that they’re be- Nasser Ali Khan (Mathieu film that benefits from Barnard’s deeply felt ing tracked on snowmobiles by Sheriff Becker Amalric) seems to be a cur- performance as the frightened young father. (Treat Williams) and his deputy daughter, mudgeon who cares more Recommended. (F. Swietek) Hanna (Kate Mara). If the concept sounds fa- about his career than his miliar, it is—recalling ’s family, but there is more to The Day He Arrives ill-fated 2000 filmReindeer Games. Director this musician than meets HHH1/2 Stefan Ruzowitzky’s Deadfall concentrates the eye. With his son’s help, Cinema Guild, 79 min., in far more on atmosphere than plotting, Nasser sets out to replace his beloved broken Korean w/English subtitles, not dialogue, or character development—aside violin, leading to adventures with a mys- rated, DVD: $29.95 from the morose siblings’ obvious incestuous terious woman (Golshifteh Farahani) and In Korean filmmaker relationship—in a somewhat contrived caper. a magical merchant (Jamel Debbouze). But Hong Sang-soo’s unusual Optional. (S. Granger) when no suitable instrument can be found, comedy, Yu Jun-Sang stars Nasser announces his plan to die. As he lies as Seongjun, a filmmaker who abruptly left Diana Vreeland: The Eye in bed, waiting to expire, Nasser reflects on the Seoul film scene—just as his career was Has to Travel HHH incidents involving a judgmental clockmaker rising—to take a job as a professor at a minor eOne, 86 min., PG-13, DVD: (Serge Avedikian) and his headstrong mother college in a provincial town. After a long $24.98 (Isabella Rossellini). But then he is visited by absence, Seongjun returns to Seoul to visit a Diana Vreeland (1903- the Angel of Death (narrator Edouard Baer), film critic friend, but cannot find his former 1989) was the high priestess who gives him a glimpse of the fates that comrade. Wandering the streets, Seongjun is of fashion through much of await his loved ones, much as in A Christmas recognized by a would-be actress and a group the 20th century, a claim Carol. Meanwhile, his wife (Maria De Me- of film students, but is ultimately unhappy persuasively demonstrated in this docu- deiros) plies him with delicacies, like chicken over losing his anonymity. Seongjun also mentary from co-directors Lisa Immordino with plums, even though Nasser insists that reconnects with an ex-girlfriend, only to Vreeland (Vreeland’s granddaughter-in- death is the only solution. On the face of it, leave her after they spend the night together. law), Bent-Jorgen Perlmutt, and Frédéric Chicken with Plums might sound like a grim Seongjun eventually locates his film critic Tcheng, which offers both a biographical affair, but Satrapi and Paronnaud find the and falls into a brief affair with an attractive sketch and an unrestrained of humor in the story and beauty in the milieu, bar owner. Other folks also Vreeland’s plus-sized personality and impact combining stylized sets with hand-drawn spot him, but Seongjun prefers not to renew on the world of haute couture. The vibrant, backdrops. And while Amalric never strives their acquaintance. The twist is that—as it fast-moving portrait effectively combines to make Nasser likable, he succeeds in making progresses—the film drifts into a Ground- archival material with interviews (mostly this stubborn man understandable. Recom- hog Day-style of storytelling, as scenes and positive), including substantial excerpts mended. (K. Fennessy) situations appear to be repeated, albeit with from Vreeland’s reminiscences with George slight changes in set-up and outcome. Shot Plimpton in preparation for a written auto- Citadel HHH in artsy black-and-white, The Day He Arrives biography (recreated here by actress Annette New Video, 84 min., R, DVD: ultimately emerges as a vibrantly original Miller). Vreeland emerges as a woman who $26.95, Blu-ray: $29.95 work of art that benefits from Yu Jun-Sang’s was driven, imperious, supremely self-con- Although billed as a hor- wonderfully droll and thoroughly unpredict- fident, and enormously successful but also ror film, Irish writer-director able lead performance. Highly recommended. manipulative and single-minded. As fashion Ciaran Foy’s Citadel is actu- (P. Hall) editor to Harper’s Bazaar (1939-62) and man- ally more of a psychological aging editor of the American version of Vogue thriller, and a quite effective Deadfall HH1/2 (1963-71), Vreeland was a tastemaker without one at that. The linchpin is the agoraphobia Magnolia, 95 min., R, DVD: peer, and later as consultant to the Metro- suffered by young widower Tommy Cowley $26.98, Blu-ray: $29.98 politan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute (Aneurin Barnard) after he witnesses his Speeding into an oncom- she transformed fashion exhibitions from pregnant wife being brutally assaulted by a ing Upper Michigan blizzard dusty historical affairs to cultural happen- gang of feral children when the couple are after pulling a casino heist, ings. She seems to have absolutely believed moving out of a dilapidated public housing brother-and-sister Addison that—as she puts it here—life is artifice and high-rise. While Cowley’s wife delivers the (Eric Bana) and Liza (Olivia style everything. That attitude, along with child, she also dies from her injuries, leaving Wilde) are heading toward the Canadian her habit of name-dropping with abandon, him a single father with an infant to care for, border with sacks of cash when their car hits makes her less attractive than the gorgeous terrified to venture outside. At his wife’s fu- a deer and spins out of control. After a state magazine spreads she presided over. Still, neral, Cowley encounters an obsessive priest trooper happens along, psychotic, trigger- those interested in the history of fashion and (James Cosmo), who not only suggests that happy Addison shoots him, compounding willing to spend time with a woman who the youths who attacked his wife are not ex- the crime—so the siblings split up and tramp viewed everything from an Olympian height actly human, but also tries to enlist him in a north separately through the desolate, snow- of privilege will find this documentary to be scheme to blow up the building they’ve taken laden wilderness, promising to meet up later. an excellent introduction to both Vreeland over. Cowley is initially reluctant to become Meanwhile, in , Jay (), and the rarefied world in which she excelled. involved, but when the brood kills a kind, an ex-con/former Olympic boxer, acciden- Recommended. (F. Swietek) socially conscious nurse who befriended tally kills his trainer en route to Thanksgiving him, and then kidnaps his own daughter, dinner at the isolated farmhouse belonging to The Do-Deca-Pentathlon HHH he must overcome his fear to embark on his parents (Sissy Spacek, Kris Kristofferson). Fox, 76 min., R, DVD: $22.98, Blu-ray: $29.99 a quest to find his child, which leads him Along the way, Jay picks up half-frozen yet Jay and have been making through dark corridors and grim basements, seductive Liza and with the roads closed due eccentric comedies since establishing their accompanied by a blind boy in the priest’s to a storm, the pair spend a steamy night in “” indie-cred with 2005’s The care. How much of the story is real and how a motel. Surreptitiously, Liza calls Addison, Puffy Chair, confidently returning here to much is happening in Cowley’s mind is un- telling him Jay’s parents’ address, so he can their low-budget roots with a tale of sibling

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 20 MARCH/APRIL 2013 New Releases from IcaRus FIlms

IN SEARCH LAST SUMMER OF MEMORY WON’T HAPPEN A film by Petra Seeger A film by Peter Gessner & Tom Hurwitz DVD / 95 min. / Color / 2008 / 16:9 / CC DVD / 58 min. / 1968 / Color UPC # 8-54565-00154-1 / SRP: $24.98 UPC # 8-54565-00155-8 / SRP: $29.98 The life and work of one of the most im- Shot in 1968, one year after the Summer portant neuroscientists of the 20th cen- of Love, this is a critical yet sympathetic tury, Nobel Prize winner Eric Kandel. examination of the anti-war movement in New York City. “An engrossing portrait.” — BONUS FILM: “Mentally stimulating and TIME OF THE LOCUST emotionally affecting.” (13 min. / B&W / 1966) —The Chicago Tribune “A useful counterbalance to the STREET DATE: MARCH 5th sentimental view of hippies given by the commercial cinema” — STREET DATE: APRIL 23rd

“Beautifully crafted.” —Variety “Fascinating!” —Newsweek

DECASIA A MAN VANISHES A film by Bill Morrison (NINgEN JôHATSU) Music by Michael Gordon A film by Shohei Imamura Blu-ray / 67 min. / BW / DVD / 130 min. / BW / 1967 / 4:3 2002 / 4x3 / UPC # 8-54565-00152-7 / SRP: $44.98 Audio: 5.1 Surround or 2.1 Stereo Japanese with English subtitles UPC # 8-54565-00153-4 BONUS: Five documentaries by Shohei SRP: $34.98 Imamura all available for the first time on BONUS FILM: DVD. Bill Morrison’s LIgHT IS CALLINg “A mercurial mystery, a vertigi- nous drama and the very stuff (8’, 2004) of cinema.” —The New York Times with music by Michael Gordon ExclusivEly on Blu-Ray!

“A wonderful experience on Blu-ray.” —The New York Times “Far ahead of its time.” —The Seattle Times

THE MINER’S HYMNS KATI WITH AN I A film by Bill Morrison A film by Robert Greene Music by Jóhann Jóhannsson DVD / 86 min. / Color / 2010 / 16x9 DVD / 52 min. / Color + BW / 2011 / UPC # 8-54565-00149-7 / SRP: $29.98 Audio: 5.1 Surround of 2.0 Stereo BONUS FEATURES: Interviews with UPC # 8-54565-00148-0 / SRP: $29.98 Kati post-filming, the Red Jumpsuit Ap- BONUS: 3 films by Bill Morrison paratus band, and director Robert Greene. RELEASE (13’) OUTERBOROUgH (9’) “Achieves an un-self-conscious THE FILM OF HER (12’) transcendence that can‘t be scripted.” —The New York Times “An elegiac testament to the lost industrial culture of the Durham coalfields.” —Sight & Sound

“Morrison is something of a magician.” —New York Magazine “CRITIC’S PICK! Beguiling, intimate, and poetic.” —New York Magazine

Order from your preferred distributor or Call: 1.800.876.1710 • Email: [email protected] HomeVideo.IcarusFilms.com rivalry run amuck. Inspired Flying Swords of Dragon Madalena’s redundant morning arguments by real brothers Mark and with shop owner Antonio (Luiz Serra) over Gate HH1/2 Anton Solak, former neigh- Indomina, 122 min., in where her fresh rolls should be displayed. bors of the Duplasses, the Mandarin w/English subtitles, A warm, nostalgic, and beautifully lensed tale begins when thirty- R, DVD: $19.99, Blu-ray: slice-of-life portrait, this is recommended. something Mark (Steve Zis- $29.99 (T. Keogh) sis) returns to his native Made by one of the ac- New Orleans with his wife, knowledged masters of styl- Fred & Vinnie HHH Stephanie (Jennifer Lafleur), for a birthday ized swordplay thrillers, ’s Flying Horizon, 91 min., not rated, party planned by his mom (Julie Vorus). For Swords of is actually the director’s DVD: $26.95 reasons that soon become apparent, brother second remake of King Hu’s 1967 martial- Character actor Fred Jeremy (Mark Kelly) wasn’t invited, but the arts classic Dragon Gate Inn (Tsui produced Stoller wrote this bitter- latter abandons his latest high-stakes poker the 1992 remake New Dragon Gate Inn). It’s sweet, autobiographical game and shows up anyway. Before long, also the first Chinese film shot in the stereo- comedy, and plays himself simmering tensions flare up and the brothers scopic IMAX 3D format (the Blu-ray release as a well-intended schnook decide to repeat a 25-event sports tournament includes both 3D and 2D versions). Although regretting his friendly outreach to an old (the Do-Deca-Pentathlon) that they invented it received a limited theatrical release in friend. Living in Los Angeles, where his as teenagers in 1990. That inaugural event the U.S., the film—not surprisingly—failed days are filled with auditions (and landing controversially ended in a parentally-decreed to catch on at the box office: unlike such the occasional movie role), Fred invites tie; now, two decades later, the brothers global hits as Hero, House of Flying Daggers, oddball pal Vinnie (Angelo Tsarouchas)—an are dysfunctionally eager for a rematch. and the landmark Crouching Tiger, Hidden obese recluse living in a rent-free basement With wrestling, go-karting, ping-pong, arm Dragon, this wanna-be classic becomes in New York—to stay with him. The idea is wrestling, and even laser-tag on the event mired down in personal and political clashes that Vinnie will reinvent himself into a Hol- schedule, the brothers become so intensely between thinly-drawn characters who fail lywood extra for films and television, but embattled that Stephanie fears her out-of- to make much dramatic impression. Global when Fred’s candy-hoarding visitor arrives, shape husband could suffer a heart attack. It’s action superstar Jet Li is top-billed as a Ming the arrangement soon falls apart. Lacking all handled with ample humor and universal Dynasty freedom fighter (but he spends most money, contacts, resources, or the will to do appeal in this winning comedy-drama that of the film off-screen) in this convoluted tale what’s necessary to change his life, Vinnie will surely resonate with competitive siblings. that focuses on the , located in a retreats into his familiar shell, smoking on Recommended. (J. Shannon) remote desert where a confusing thicket of Fred’s roof, studying vintage baseball cards, characters are hoping that hidden treasure and resisting ideas about how to succeed. In Doomsday Book HH1/2 will be revealed during a sandstorm that oc- short order, Fred’s goodwill evaporates and Well Go USA, 115 min., in curs only once every 60 years. In a narrative his days become full of tension and sleepless- Korean w/English subtitles, not sense, none of this is very involving, but the ness (Vinnie is a champion snorer). Inspired rated, DVD: $24.98, Blu-ray: film’s abundant action scenes are impres- by Stoller’s personal misadventures with a $29.98 sive—combining traditional wire-work stunts real-life Vinnie, Fred & Vinnie is an interest- A tripartite anthology of with all-digital characters who defy gravity ing relationship dramedy that also features shorts from as they leap, fly, float, and spin in mid-air. plenty of funny anecdotes about the hazards two notable directors, the It’s too bad there isn’t a better story to match of being a semi-familiar actor on Hollywood’s overarching theme of Doomsday Book—as one the film’s extravagant production values. An fringes. Recommended. (T. Keogh) might guess from the title—is apocalyptic. optional purchase. (J. Shannon) Easily the best of the trio, Kim Jee-woon’s Fun Size H1/2 “Heavenly Creature” is about a robot em- Found Memories HHH Paramount, 86 min., PG-13, ployed by a Buddhist monastic community to Film Movement, 97 min., in DVD: $30.99, Blu-ray: $37.99 handle its administrative affairs. But the ma- Portuguese w/English subtitles, Obviously striving for a chine has itself achieved enlightenment—a not rated, DVD: $24.95 vibe, the plot development that represents a danger to hu- With its low-key wit and of this -pro- manity’s uniqueness—so the manufacturer is simmering poignancy, Found duced teen movie revolves determined to destroy the machine in order Memories is a lovely feature around a familiar “crazy to save man’s dominion over the world. How- film about kick-starting life night” escapade, here set on Halloween. High ever, the robot also has supporters and—as it in a ghostly Brazilian village. Filmmaker Julia schoolers Wren (Victoria Justice) and best turns out—the power to resist termination. Murat deftly depicts the maddeningly slow buddy April (Jane Levy) have been invited Deliberately paced but serenely elegant, this pulse of Jotuomba, a community surrounded to a party by the campus stud, but Wren’s centerpiece tale is an exquisite gem. Less by dense forest and seemingly occupied by mom—who is trying to recapture her youth successful are the bookend shorts by Yim no one under the age of 60. Stuck in a col- by dating a much younger man—orders Pil-sung. The opener, “Brave New World,” is lective rut and locked into some long-held her daughter to take her little brother out a gory comedy in which a goofy young man traditions—the town cemetery is locked for trick-or-treating instead. Naturally, Wren finds romance while also instigating a zombie some reason, but no one knows (or remem- loses the lad and spends the night search- takeover of humanity, and the finale, “Happy bers) why—Jotuomba receives a little jolt ing for him, helped by April and two nerdy Birthday,” is a raucous farce in which a young when young photographer Rita (Lisa Fávero) friends. Meanwhile, the kid falls in with a girl’s Internet order of a magic 8-ball leads—a shows up with a curious eye and a few myster- goofy convenience-store clerk on a mission decade later—to the imminent destruction of ies of her own. Renting a room in the home to humiliate the girlfriend who dumped the planet by an asteroid-sized billiard ball. of the elderly, stiff-limbed Madalena (Sonia him. Tonally, director Josh Schwartz’s film But even while neither of these shorts equal Guedes), the laconic Rita gradually opens up is a mess, with several sexually suggestive “Heavenly Creature” in terms of either story to her hostess while observing the village’s bits inserted into what otherwise appears to or style, both have their inspired moments. A daily laidback routines. Murat nicely milks be kiddie fare (even worse, one plot thread strong optional purchase. (F. Swietek) some comic mileage from the latter, such as uses the misperception of child molestation

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 22 MARCH/APRIL 2013 INDEPENDENTTO ENJOY AWARD-WINNING & FOREIGN “JOIN FILMS ALL YEAR-ROUND, THE CLUB!” VENICE CANNES SUNDANCE TORONTO BERLIN SXSW TRIBECA LOCARNO REFERENCE

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To learn more or subscribe, contact: Maxwell Wolkin • (212) 941-7744 x211 [email protected] • filmmovement.com/nontheatrical as a source of amusement). A predictably mother’s sleazy boyfriend). But even from the a “suicide bluff,” the feudal lord relates the moral wrap-up—Wren learns responsibil- start, Gandu pumps up the narrative volume story of another samurai who recently sought ity and finds romance—comes across as with rapid-fire editing, mini-music videos, to commit seppuku in the same courtyard, nothing more than manipulative schmaltz. split-screen sequences, and printed text only to beg for money or work. Told in an But even apart from the appallingly mis- overlaying the visuals. After Gandu teams epic flashback, the narrative comes full judged elements, the movie simply isn’t that up with a rickshaw driver who fancies him- circle when Tsugumo reveals his own hidden funny—hampered by lame dialogue, forced self the new Bruce Lee, the film grows ever motivations, leading to a gloriously stylized, situations, one-dimensional characters, and more manic and technically experimental one-man-against-many showdown taking uneven direction. Early on, Wren says to her as our antihero’s desires are either fulfilled place in and around gently falling snow. A friend, “This is bad, April. This is very, very in reality or at least appear to be as a result superb remake of director Masaki Kobayashi’s bad.” Truer words have never been spoken, of drug-induced hallucinations. Designed to original 1962 classic, Hara-Kiri is a powerful April. Not recommended. (F. Swietek) shock, the nihilistic, sexually graphic Gandu study of oppressive leadership and individual is a visual and aural assault on the senses, honor, one that further catapults Miike into Game Change HHH a slice of cutting-edge Indian filmmaking the upper ranks of world-class filmmakers. HBO, 117 min., TV-MA, DVD: that is definitely not for everyone. A strong Highly recommended. (J. Shannon) $19.98, Blu-ray: $24.99 optional purchase for only the most adven- Director Jay Roach’s turous collections. (F. Swietek) Hipsters HHH Emmy-winning original Kino Lorber, 89 min., in HBO drama looks at the Gayby HH Russian w/English subtitles, not “game changing” pick of Wolfe, 89 min., not rated, rated, DVD: $29.95 Sarah Palin by John Mc- DVD: $24.95 A colorful Russian film set Cain as his vice presidential running mate A well-received in the youth culture of 1955 in the 2008 election. Golden Globe winner expanded into a feature, Moscow, director Valery Julianne Moore stars as Palin and Ed Harris Jonathan Lisecki’s Gayby Todorovsky’s 2008 Hipsters plays McCain in a stranger-than-fiction tale centers on a is an old-fashioned musical, coming-of-age that straddles the line between drama and yoga instructor named Jenn tale, and adventure in youthful rebellion. In political satire. Based on the book by Mark (Jenn Harris) who is unlucky in love, but so the conformist society of Soviet Russia, loyal Halperin and John Heilemann, this multiple eager to have a baby that she recruits gay young communist Mels (Anton Shagin) falls award winner presents Palin as a likable best friend Matt (Matthew Wilkas) to be- in love with Polya (Oksana Akinshina), a media figure in public, but a bit petulant, come the father. Rather than go through an member of a group of self-defined “hipsters” immature, and borderline manic-depressive artificial insemination procedure, however, who parade about in peacock fashions, and behind the scenes, while McCain comes Jenn insists that they go about baby-mak- dance to swing and small combo dance bands across as a national hero trying to maintain ing the old-fashioned way, which naturally from World War II-era America in under- his honor and dignity in the face of a hardball creates endless dilemmas, considering their ground clubs. It’s a bright blast of dissident campaign. Game Change is hardly a favorable longtime platonic friendship and Matt’s lack culture in a society where rebels are regularly portrait of Palin, making the case that she of interest in the opposite sex. Complicating jailed for much less. The eye-gouging color, was utterly out of her league on the national matters, Matt pines for his ex-boyfriend and flamboyant dress, and appropriated style is political stage and sorely uninformed on Jenn decides to take an herbal supplement not just a fashion statement, but also a cry issues of state and world affairs, while also that winds up over-stimulating her sex drive of individualism and freedom in a country suggesting that she was more interested in and putting her into the arms of a studly where “kowtowing to Western ideology is promoting her own political identity than housepainter who doesn’t believe in con- punishable by up to 10 years” and “a saxo- serving the campaign. But the film does doms. Although Harris and Wilkas sport a phone is considered a concealed weapon.” It’s show that she struggled hard to rise to the pleasant charm together and have a talent for also a warped mirror reflection of what these challenge. Likely to be seen as unduly hostile delivering broad comedy, Gayby nevertheless Soviet youths imagine that American culture by some, and embraced by others, this is quickly wears out its welcome due to a surplus is like from the snatched glimpses and slivers recommended. (S. Axmaker) of crass stereotypes and anvil humor. Not a of artifacts seen between the cracks of the necessary purchase. (P. Hall) Iron Curtain—not only a decade out of date Gandu HH1/2 but also exaggerated to hyperbolic extremes. Artsploitation, 85 min., in Hara-Kiri: Death of a The drama itself is much more conventional, Bengali w/English subtitles, not with the kids forced to choose between their HHH1/2 rated, DVD: $24.99 Samurai rebel identities and donning the costume of New Video, 126 min., in Banned in for its Japanese w/English subtitles, conformity for advancement, marriage, par- very explicit sex scenes and not rated, DVD: $26.95, Blu- enthood, and responsibility. But what’s most boasting plenty of dialogue ray: $29.95 interesting here is the heady combination of and lyrics that might make Although Japanese direc- realistic detail and expressionist song-and- viewers blush (even the title is a slang term tor Takashi Miike has built dance sequences, offering a rare glimpse into translated as “asshole”), this Bengali film a loyal following for his films indulging in a Russian subculture that Americans have by a director calling himself simply Q (aka extremes of gore and bloodshed, Hara-Kiri: not seen dramatized before. Recommended. Kaushik Mukherjee) is about as anti-Bol- Death of a Samurai marks a surprisingly re- (S. Axmaker) lywood as could be imagined. Shot in black- strained and elegant shift. Spanning decades, and-white except for some of the hardcore the film’s epic tale of revenge and samurai Hitchcock HHH sex sequences, which are presented in lurid honor takes place in 17th-century Japan, Fox, 98 min., PG-13, Blu-ray/DVD Combo: color, Gandu begins as a grubby portrait of beginning with a mysterious, master-less $39.99, Mar. 12 the titular young man (Anubrata Basu), who ronin named Tsugumo (Ebizô Ichikawa) After the success of North by Northwest, ec- wastes his life buying lottery tickets and arriving at the castle of a feudal lord (Kôji centric 60-year-old director dreaming of becoming a famous rapper and Yakusho) and requesting to commit seppuku () turned his creative atten- getting laid (while stealing cash from his (ritual suicide) in the courtyard. Suspecting tion to Robert Bloch’s novel , deter-

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 24 MARCH/APRIL 2013 mined to make something ing, the spectacular visuals are often truly discover the somewhat bizarre circumstances entirely different. Inspired breathtaking. Jackson filmed this and the surrounding her recent life. Although we by the brutal serial murders two subsequent installments back-to-back in see Kati receive her diploma, her life plans committed by psychopath New Zealand; hopefully, the next two films suddenly crumble, leaving her future quite Ed Gein, Psycho was an un- will be a bit more engrossing. Recommended. ambiguous. Kati with an I is a film that will get conventional property that (S. Granger) under the skin of patient viewers, made by a no one was willing to bank capable storyteller who has a knack for draw- on, including Paramount The Intouchables HHH ing poignancy from the ordinary, capturing Pictures. So Hitch mortgaged his house and Weinstein, 112 min., in French sometimes melancholy images—a close-up of funded the film himself, taking a financial w/English subtitles, R, DVD: an ear, a gauzy shot of a house, a setting sun risk that infuriated his collaborative writer/ $30.99, Blu-ray: $35.99, Mar. 5 dimming the skies over a football field—with film editor wife, Alma Reville (), This charming odd-cou- an overriding sense of quiet beauty. Recom- who in turn embarked on her own project ple comedy begins with a mended. (T. Keogh) with an ambitious young screenwriter, black motorist careening Whitfield Cook (Danny Huston), which through Paris in an expen- Lapland Odyssey HH1/2 aroused her husband’s jealousy. Propelling sive sports car with a white passenger as Kool Artsploitation, 96 min., in the Hitchcocks’ marital strife was his obses- & the Gang booms on the stereo. When he’s Finnish w/English subtitles, not sive infatuation with a succession of svelte, stopped by the police, the driver claims that rated, DVD: $24.99 blonde leading ladies, including Grace Kelly, he is rushing a quadriplegic who is suffering A comedy of frustration , , Tippi Hedren, a seizure to the hospital. After being sent on with distinctly dark under- Vera Miles and, now, Janet Leigh (Scarlett their way, the two men convulse in laugher currents, Dome Karukoski’s Johansson). Adapting Stephen Rebello’s Alfred and share a cigarette. Several months earlier, Lapland Odyssey starts with a Hitchcock and the Making of Psycho, director wealthy, worldly widower Philippe (François premise reminiscent of Hollywood’s frat-boy ’s Hitchcock chronicles the birth Cluzet) was paralyzed in a paragliding ac- farces. Beautiful, hardworking Inari (Pamela of the complex and controversial horror cident, and needed a caregiver. Just out of Tola) gives her likable slacker boyfriend Janne classic Psycho, up through its 1960 premiere. prison, troubled, pot-smoking Driss (Omar (Jussi Vatanen) money to buy a digital TV Hopkins brilliantly captures Hitchcock’s Sy) applies for the job, mainly so he can qual- converter so the couple can enjoy a romantic distinctive look (the film scored an Oscar ify for welfare benefits. Despite the misgiv- evening watching Titanic after she comes nomination for Best Makeup) and dry, droll ings of his staff, open-minded Philippe hires home. After Janne wastes the dough with manner, while Golden Globe nominee Mir- him—attracted to Driss’s crass cockiness and his drinking buddies—cynical Kapu (Jasper ren adroitly encapsulates the inner conflict unwavering candor. While Driss’s caregiving Pääkkönen) and desperate-to-get-laid loser of the intensely creative woman who was skills may be lacking and the pair are worlds Räihänen (Timo Lavikainen)—and returns constantly relegated to a supportive role. apart on the socioeconomic scale, Philippe home empty-handed, Inari announces that Recommended. (S. Granger) senses that Driss’s friendship is real. And both she is moving out unless he can somehow share an addiction to the adrenaline rush of secure the converter before midnight. That The Hobbit: An risk-taking and an appreciation for women. sets the hapless male trio off on a journey Unexpected Journey Inspired by real events, directors Olivier marked by one after another, includ- HHH Nakache and Eric Toledano’s The Intouchables ing harassment by unfriendly cops, a run-in benefits from an irresistibly subversive per- with some Russian mobsters, a wild swim New Line, 170 min., PG-13, DVD: $28.98, Blu-ray: $35.99, formance by Sy, who became the first black with some very physical girls, and encounters Mar. 19 performer to win France’s prestigious César with uncooperative shopkeepers. And while In Lord of the Rings direc- award for Best Actor (beating The Artist’s Jean they’re away, Inari’s smarmy ex-boyfriend tor Peter Jackson’s some- Dujardin). Recommended. (S. Granger) shows up to help her pack—and tries to get times slow-moving opening film of a three- her into bed. While the lustrous widescreen part adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved Kati with an I HHH cinematography offers some stunning views Middle-earth fantasy, narrative occasionally Icarus Films, 86 min., not of the frigid climes of Finland, the takes a backseat to special effects. Long before rated, DVD: $29.98 characters are as cold as the temperature, his nephew Frodo was born, reluctant Bilbo Filmmaker Robert Greene despite a revelation midway through that is Baggins (Martin Freeman) is persuaded by the takes a slow-brewing ap- supposed to add emotional depth. So while Wizard Gandalf (Ian McKellen) to leave his proach in this documentary Lapland Odyssey deserves credit for tweak- comfortably cozy hobbit home in the Shire about his younger half-sis- ing a familiar formula, it is hobbled by an to join 13 dwarves who are determined to ter, 18-year-old Kati Genth- uneasy tone and generally lax air. Optional. reclaim their ancestral mountain home of ner, filmed during a period of Kati’s murky (F. Swietek) Erebor, which was appropriated by the dragon transition from high school graduation to Smaug. After pillaging Baggins’ pantry, the the threshold of adulthood. The opening Les Misérables HHH1/2 rowdy dwarves, led by brave warrior Thorin scenes offer little specificity about what we’re Universal, 158 min., PG-13, Oakenshield (Richard Armitage), embark watching, largely consisting of moments that DVD: $29.98, Blu-ray: $34.98, on a treacherous quest during which they capture a blur of teenage activity leading up Mar. 22 encounter savage orcs, goblins, trolls, and to a graduation ceremony in a small Alabama Based on Victor Hugo’s wargs, as well as the elves Galandriel (Cate town. Earlier footage of Kati as an imagina- classic novel, this epic, Os- Blanchett) and Elrond (Hugo Weaving), tive little girl full of promise and delightful car-nominated cinematic and a mysterious figure known as the Nec- observation offers some perspective on her adaptation should attract romancer. Humble Bilbo exchanges riddles spirit and who she has become as a young fans of the musical. Set in squalid with the tricky creature Gollum (embodied woman—someone full of determination 19th-century France, the story opens with by Andy Serkis) and acquires that fabled, despite having little power to realize her emaciated Jean Valjean ()—just “precious” gold ring. Although the exposi- goals. In time, Kati’s world begins to fall into finishing up 19 years of hard labor for stealing tory mythology here is occasionally numb- place as we meet her slacker boyfriend and a loaf of bread—toiling under the watchful

MARCH/APRIL 2013 25 VIDEO LIBRARIAN eye of implacable Inspector Javert (Russell star of ‘70s films, appears as over self-destructive impulses, cure physical Crowe). Paroled but also condemned as an the blacksmith’s mother in a flashback). A ailments, and purify their immortal souls. ex-convict, Valjean is given food and shelter fitfully entertaining mess, this is an optional Quell becomes a devoted follower but harbors by the sympathetic Bishop of Digne (Colm purchase. (S. Granger) such anguish—and anger—that he eventu- Wilkinson); in return, Valjean steals the ally alienates everyone in the close-knit church’s silver. When he’s caught, the Bishop Mansome HH community, even Dodd’s empathetic wife tells the authorities that the booty belongs MPI, 88 min., PG-13, DVD: (Amy Adams). Anderson has meticulously to Valjean, instructing Valjean to use it to $24.98 crafted this visually stunning, intellectually make a better life. Within eight years, Valjean Morgan Spurlock’s lat- provocative, yet often plodding period piece becomes a wealthy factory owner under an est docu-essay offers a that is obviously inspired by L. Ron Hubbard assumed name. Valjean takes pity on single lighthearted take on male and his Church of Scientology (although mother-turned-prostitute Fantine (Anne grooming, with emphasis many spiritual and religious movements Hathaway), vowing to protect her daughter, on individual preferences exploring the human potential took root Cosette, by paying off a couple who have for being clean-shaven vs. sporting beards during the post-war 1950s). Punctuated by custody of her—a pair of disreputable inn- and moustaches. Mansome is mostly com- a discordant score from Jonny Greenwood keepers ( and Sacha prised of interviews, some of which are flat of Radiohead, The Master is an uneven film Baron Cohen, serving as comic relief). Years improvisational sketches with celebrities, that benefits from its three Oscar-nominated later, with Valjean as her guardian/adoptive such as two of the executive producers—Ja- performances by Phoenix, Hoffman, and father, now-grown Cosette (Amanda Seyfried) son Bateman and Will Arnett—who peri- Adams. Recommended. (S. Granger) falls in love with rebellious Marius (Eddie odically reappear to offer brutally unfunny Redmayne) during the 1832 Paris Uprising. observations about themselves. Others are Nobody Walks HH1/2 Director retains the pop opera more direct conversations, like those with Magnolia, 82 min., R, DVD: structure with only minimal spoken dialogue and Paul Rudd, who are $26.98, Blu-ray: $29.98 but also takes a daring step by having the self-deprecatory, or John Waters, who com- Ry Russo-Young’s drama actors sing “live” on the set, as opposed to ments on his own moustache “design” and depicting adultery among recording with an orchestra beforehand. As how choices in style can go awry. Mansome the beautiful people is set for the music, Oscar-nominee Jackman nails also features sequences with hair stylists and in the home studio of a Valjean’s “Soliloquy,” “Bring Him Home,” and their customers (some see the barbershop as freelance Hollywood sound- “Who Am I?” with every emotion magnified one of the few places left where men can still effects specialist dwelling in the affluent in close-ups, while fellow nominee Hatha- be men). One substantial section focuses on Silver Lake suburb. In between projects, L.A. way’s “I Dreamed a Dream” is wrenching. An Jack , an obsessive whose long beard audio tech Peter (John Krasinsky) commits anguished, unrestrained extravaganza, this is takes him to competitions, including one to helping Martine (Olivia Thirlby), a young highly recommended. (S. Granger) in Europe where his straight, yardstick-long visual artist from New York City, create her growth is pitted against the hirsute efforts film-loop installation focusing on insects The Man with the Iron of other would-be champions. Spurlock’s and arachnids. Peter’s assistant attempts to Fists HH film seems to want to say something about start a relationship with Martine, but instead Universal, 96 min., R, DVD: masculinity, or at least about modern-day the chic houseguest and Peter succumb to $29.98, Blu-ray: $34.98 conceptions of masculinity, but its scattershot mutual fascination for each other, despite Rapper RZA of hip-hop’s approach and frat-boy tone make it seem his marriage and children. Peter’s wife must Wu-Tang Clan is a triple superficial and jejune. And those looking for weigh the betrayal against her own loyalties threat as actor-writer-direc- laughs should note that the humor here is (and her own extramarital suitors, including tor for this campy and fero- thinner than the hair on a bald man’s scalp. a musician ex-husband). Is boho-girl Martine cious martial-arts action-adventure flick. Set Not a necessary purchase. (F. Swietek) an innocent or a provocateur in the way she in 19th-century feudal China, the somewhat arouses desire in men? Meanwhile, Peter’s incomprehensible story follows a ship- The Master HHH daughter’s dawning sexuality emerges in an wrecked American slave-turned-blacksmith Anchor Bay, 144 min., R, DVD: unhealthy schoolgirl crush on a male tutor. It (RZA) who after being saved by the Emperor’s $29.98, Blu-ray: $39.99 remains for the viewer to sort out victims and hedonistic emissary () uses his Paul Thomas Anderson’s villains, but while the domestic angst here metallurgic skill to recover a stolen shipment audacious character study breaks little new ground, setting it amidst of the Governor’s gold. The brave blacksmith begins in the South Pacific the small-print names in movie credits makes adores a pretty prostitute, Lady Silk (Jamie at the conclusion of WWII, for a slightly offbeat-while-still-Tinseltown Chung), who works for the Madam (Lucy with Navy seaman Fred- ambiance. A strong optional purchase. Liu)—an influential force, especially since die Quell () indulging his (C. Cassady) anything of importance in Jungle Village quirky psychosexual obsession, masturbat- seems to occur in her Pink Blossom . ing to a huge female torso sculpted in the The Other Son HHH “Men have always held the power,” she tells wet sand. Freddie is a volatile, demented Cohen, 105 min., in French her lethal lovelies, “but power is a flexible drunkard, drifting from job to job, until he w/English subtitles, PG-13, mistress.” Meanwhile, the local clans are at manages to stumble aboard an elegant yacht DVD: $19.98, Blu-ray: $24.98, war: villainous Silver Lion (Byron Mann) and bound for New York from via Mar. 19 his formidable henchman (Cung Le) are on the Panama Canal. Here he meets Lancaster In The Other Son, French- the rampage, along with duplicitous Poison Dodd (Philip Seymour Hoffman), a char- Jewish filmmaker Lorraine Dagger (Daniel Wu) and impervious Brass ismatic charlatan who presents himself as Levy adds a compelling Body (WWE’s Dave Bautista). Filled with an erudite philosopher/guru. Dodd is the twist to the babies-switched- adroitly choreographed kung-fu, wire-work, leader of a cult named The Cause, which at-birth plot: namely, the Israeli-Palestinian and hand-to-hand combat, this vanity proj- uses a manipulative hypnosis “processing” conflict. In Tel Aviv, 18-year-old musician ect is obviously inspired by the corny Shaw technique to purge troubling memories so Joseph Silbur (Jules Sitruk) enlists in an elite Brothers’ movies of yesteryear (Pam Grier, that members can theoretically gain control Army unit, undergoing a requisite physical

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 26 MARCH/APRIL 2013 exam with a blood test that reveals he cannot dark hallways, and distant noises, along with who dreams of becoming a possibly be the biological son of his high- shots of the family cat ominously scampering sportscaster—now struggles ranking Israeli soldier father (Pascal Elbé) and past the camera. In fact, the only cinematic to make ends meet. Moving French-born physician mother (Emmanuelle innovation introduced in this stale, deriva- to Virginia to reconnect Devos). Apparently, just after he was born tive, low-budget sequel is the use of the Xbox with his son, Lewis (Noah during the 1991 Gulf War, a hospital evacu- Kinect system. Viewers can Lomax), George ultimately ation resulted in Joseph being inadvertently expect to see lots of menacing surveillance hopes to reunite with his ex- switched with Yacine (Mehdi Dehbi), the footage—very little of which has any sig- wife, Stacie ()— newborn son of a Palestinian engineer/auto nificance and is sometimes unintentionally except she’s engaged, and still bitter about mechanic (Khalifa Natour) and a West Bank funny—while the storyline potential of a his past indiscretions. When George catches housewife (Areen Omari). This sensitive fam- neighborhood coven of witches is never fully Lewis’s soccer coach slacking off, he steps in, ily drama delves into how the teenagers and explored. Not recommended. (S. Granger) and wins over players and parents alike. Un- their families react to the news. Although fortunately, too much so: the way that talent- both fathers quickly enter into denial, the Parental Guidance ed actresses like Judy Greer, , warm-hearted mothers eventually arrange a HH1/2 and Catherine Zeta-Jones throw themselves at socially awkward meeting, as curiosity about Fox, 105 min., PG, DVD: George registers as more pathetic than amus- their “other” son triumphs over historical $29.98, Blu-ray: $39.99, Mar. ing. The real heavy in the film turns out not to resentment. Educated in Paris and ready 26 be Stacie’s nice-guy fiancé (James Tupper), but for medical school, Yacine adjusts the best, Minor-league baseball an- rather the insanely jealous millionaire (Den- although his virulently anti-Semitic brother nouncer Artie Decker (Billy nis Quaid) with the lonely wife (Thurman). (Mahmood Shalabi) is furious that their Crystal) is bereft after losing The male-female machinations here are both family has been unwittingly nurturing a Jew. his job as the voice of the Fresno Grizzlies. So familiar and forced, and the film only comes Joseph is stunned and deeply hurt when his when his daughter, Alice (Marisa Tomei), and alive whenever George spends time with rabbi informs him that he’s not Jewish unless son-in-law, Phil (Tom Everett Scott), have to the kids, an outspoken group who recall the he goes through a complicated conversion leave town on a business trip, Artie’s devoted Bad News Bears wiseacres. Optional, at best. process. Yet, showing remarkable maturity, wife, Diane (), says they’d love to (K. Fennessy) Joseph realizes that his talent and passion stay with their seldom-seen grandchildren, for music are inherited from his Arabic ignoring Artie’s curmudgeonly protests. Red Hook Summer father. The performances are touching and “We’re the other grandparents,” Diane HHH1/2 convincing, as the multinational cast gently wistfully observes. “This is our chance!” Image, 121 min., R, DVD: and subtly conveys an upbeat, optimistic But uptight Alice and techno-geek Phil $27.98, Blu-ray: $29.98 message that adroitly skirts sentimentality live in a so-called “smart house” in which Until it takes a challeng- while exploring many facets of self-identity. everything is automated and computerized. ing turn in the third act, Recommended. (S. Granger) Not surprisingly, their children’s lives are Spike Lee’s Red Hook Summer strictly scheduled and dutifully monitored. recalls his underrated 1994 H Regimented 12-year-old Harper (Bailee film Crooklyn. After his father’s death in Paramount, 96 min., R, DVD: Madison) is determined to ace an audition , cynical adolescent Silas (Jules $30.99, Blu-ray: $37.99 that will get her into a prestigious music Brown)—aka “Flik” due to his obsessive This fourth installment school in order to prepare her to play violin photography and digital-videomaking on in the highly-profitable, with a world-famous orchestra. Her stressed his iPad—must leave Atlanta to spend the found-footage horror fran- younger brother, Turner (Joshua Rush), has summer in predominantly black Red Hook, chise begins with another a stuttering problem, while mischievous Brooklyn, living with his grandfather, Enoch gimmicky flashback to Barker (Kyle Harrison Breitkopf), talks to (Clarke Peters), a Baptist preacher of the old 2006, when a toddler is abducted by his Aunt an imaginary kangaroo friend named Carl. school. Their culture-clash is inevitable: tech- Katie (Katie Featherston), who murdered her To call Alice and Phil overprotective and savvy Silas maintains an angry disbelief in sister Kristi. Returning to November 2011, indulgent is an understatement; they define God and an affinity (at first) for gangstas and Paranormal Activity 4 follows a suburban “helicopter parents.” Technology-challenged troublemakers in the Hook housing projects, family caring for a creepy 6-year-old Artie and Diane, however, come from a dif- while Enoch’s archaic, rock-steady faith and neighbor, Robbie (Brady Allen), whose single ferent generation, one that raised children religiosity comes across as both irritating mother is suddenly hospitalized. Bickering by old-fashioned, -sense rules—and and courageous. Much time is spent on Doug (Stephen Dunham) and Holly (Alex- bribery. The ensuing colossal culture clash is fiery church sermons and Gospel-play-like ondra Lee) have two children: Wyatt (Aiden inevitable. Crystal is in his comedic element dialogue, during which Lee and scriptwriter Lovekamp), also six, and his 15-year-old sister, here, while Midler is tart, touching, and James McBride argue their main characters’ Alex (Kathryn Newton). Brooding Robbie has tender, but the script vacillates—somewhat contrasting points-of-view while also exhibit- a malevolent friend with whom he constantly disconcertingly—between astute, sophisti- ing a sense of disillusionment over the fact converses—the invisible demon Toby, a super- cated observations and juvenile toilet humor, that Obama’s promised “hope” and “change” natural presence that Wyatt follows around making this a hit-and-miss effort. A strong have not reached the lower classes. And then the house while riding his Big Wheel. Mean- optional purchase. (S. Granger) comes an especially shocking church service while, computer-compulsive Alex and her and act of ‘hood justice that stirs a moral tech-savvy, Skype-chatting boyfriend (Matt Playing for Keeps HH hornet’s nest while also proving that ethics Shively) set up motion-sensing webcams Sony, 106 min., PG-13, DVD: $30.99, Blu-ray: in the mean streets do not break down to a all over the house to ultimately acquire the $35.99, Mar. 5 simple good guy/bad guy mindset. Although bizarre found-footage that propels the film. Gabriele Muccino’s Playing for Keeps, an the performances are uneven among a cast Directors Henry Joost and Ariel Schulman awkward mix of sports and suds, exists pri- of largely unknowns, Lee’s typical vibrant (who collaborated on the previous install- marily to keep Scottish actor Gerard Butler’s colors, street-smart dialogue, and pervasive ment) utilize far too many generic shots of fan club happy. While he once enjoyed a music soundtrack (gospel interspersed with inexplicably opening and/or slamming doors, successful soccer career, Butler’s George— music by Bruce Hornsby) make this one of

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ContaCt: [email protected] 212.219.4029 x28 • www.osCillosCope.net his strongest films in recent years. Highly palace life is only relieved when ambitious, continents on 70mm film, recommended. (C. Cassady) intelligent Struensee () is Samsara recalls a touch- recruited by the nobility to accompany stone in the genre, 1982’s Rise of the Guardians Caroline’s volatile, mentally unbalanced Koyannisqatsi, which Fricke HHH husband on a European tour. Returning himself photographed. DreamWorks, 97 min., PG, to the Danish court as royal doctor, tutor, Similarly, Samsara (the title DVD: $29.99, Blu-ray: $39.99, and advisor, Struensee introduces a set of is a Tibetan word meaning Mar. 12 radical sociopolitical reforms, including “the wheel of life”) features Hundreds of years ago— inoculation against smallpox, and the repeal no narration or story, merely a succession of as the story goes in this ani- of censorship, which infuriates the elitist, images of contemplation and natural beauty mated feature—the Man in faith-based ruling council. Struensee also set against snapshots of urban culture, all the Moon appointed Santa Claus, the Easter indulges in a dangerous extramarital relation- backed by hypnotic, cyclical music. Scenes Bunny, the Tooth Fairy, and the Sandman ship with the Queen, a treasonous betrayal in a Buddhist monastery and shots capturing as Guardians, to serve as protectors of in- that doesn’t escape the notice of scheming the elemental power of an erupting volcano nocence and wonder. Their sinister adver- Dowager Queen Juliane (Trine Dyrholm). are juxtaposed with looks at the mechaniza- sary is the Boogeyman, who is determined Based on historical fact, filmmaker Nikolaj tion of food preparation and the impersonal to destroy children’s naïve belief in these Arcel’s Oscar-nominated A Royal Affair boasts rush of urban crowds and city streets at night. magical icons. Playful, yet lonely, water wonderfully naturalistic performances and It’s a stunning film—like a new age travelogue sprite Jack Frost (voiced by Chris Pine) is sumptuous cinematography that elevate it with majestic landscapes and awesome im- thrust into the fray, much to the dismay of well above the usual costume drama. Highly ages of human activity—that makes for an the other Guardians, who are skeptical about recommended. (S. Granger) impressive spectacle on the big screen, but this slippery, invisible outsider able to turn on video plays more like a coffee table book water into ice. Known as North, Santa (Alec Rust and Bone HHH1/2 in motion, a visual symphony that features Baldwin) talks like a Russian, sports tattoos Sony, 122 min., in French some of the most amazing movie images and a thumb ring, and is tended by manic w/English subtitles, R, DVD: caught on film while presenting a rather elves and hard-working yetis. Bunnymund $30.99, Blu-ray: $35.99, Mar. simpleminded perspective on life in balance 19 (Hugh Jackman in native Australian mode) and a soft new age spiritualism. Likely to ap- is joined by fleet-footed, faceless eggs, while French writer-director peal to fans of non-narrative cinema, this is a the flitting forces of Tooth (Isla Fisher) not Jacques Audiard’s Rust and strong optional purchase. (S. Axmaker) only faithfully bestow her under-the-pillow Bone, which draws from a coins but save the teeth they gather. Lastly, short-story collection by Sinister HH the snoozing Sandman silently spins his Canadian author Craig Davidson, presents a Summit, 110 min., R, DVD: pixie dust through children’s windows at pair of individuals with a unique set of chal- $29.95, Blu-ray: $39.99 night, begetting the sweet dreams that the lenges. Ali (Matthias Schoenaerts) arrives in This supernatural thrill- Boogeyman, called Pitch Black (Jude Law), coastal Antibes from with no money, er blends Blair Witch-style is determined to turn into dark, despair- no wife, and a 5-year-old son, so he goes to found-footage, a search for ing nightmares. Their battle for youthful stay with his estranged sister and her wary a serial killer, and a haunted minds and hearts is waged around two New husband. After securing a job as a bouncer, house. The opening scene England tykes: Jamie (Dakota Goyo) and his the former boxer extracts orca trainer Stéph- shows a suburban family standing beneath little sister, Sophie (Georgie Grieve), who anie () from a fracas at a a tree, hoods over their faces and nooses stumbles into the portal linking Earth with nightclub. Hoping to pursue a relationship, around their necks, just before they’re the Guardians. Amusingly adapted from Ali gives Stéphanie his phone number, al- hoisted into the air, writhing and strug- William Joyce’s The Guardians of Childhood though she isn’t available. But then a routine gling. Months later, true-crime writer Ellison book series, filmmaker Peter Ramsey’s fairy at the marine park goes horribly awry, and Oswalt ()—desperate to repeat tale is a bit frenetic, yet beautiful to behold. Stéphanie suffers a devastating injury; after his earlier writing success—decides to move Recommended. (S. Granger) being released from the hospital, she gives his loyal, long-suffering wife (Juliet Rylance) Ali a call. Seeing her again, Ali expresses no and children (Michael Hall D’Addario, Clare HHH surprise or disappointment regarding her al- Foley) into that same creepy house, hoping A Royal Affair 1/2 tered physical state, and his lack of judgment Magnolia, 137 min., in Danish to both solve the mystery of what happened w/English subtitles, R, DVD: lifts her out of despair. Just as Ali starts to and write a new bestseller (supposedly, the $26.98, Blu-ray: $29.98, Mar. fight professionally again, Stéphanie returns family had another child who went missing 26 to the water to begin a rebuilding process. In after the murders). In the attic, whiskey- Given that most Ameri- the months ahead, Stéphanie becomes even swilling Oswalt discovers a box containing cans are relatively unfa- more independent, but fears that her life as a a movie projector and five reels of Super 8 miliar with Scandinavian woman will never be the same—and it isn’t, footage depicting families slaughtered in history, the name Johann but Audiard turns this couple’s unlikely ro- macabre ways. Noting a dark figure with a Friedrich Struensee may not ring a bell. But mance into something truly touching. Highly demonic face who keeps re-appearing along the Danes credit this idealistic 18th-century recommended. (K. Fennessy) with a strange symbol, obsessed Oswalt German physician for bringing the Enlight- consults via Skype with an expert in the oc- enment to their country. In 1766, naïve 15- Samsara HH1/2 cult (Vincent D’Onofrio), who identifies the year-old British princess Caroline Mathilde MPI, 102 min., PG-13, DVD: $27.98, Blu-ray: mystery figure as a diabolical pagan deity, (Alicia Vikander)—a sister of King George $34.98 believed to consume the souls of children. III—is betrothed to her cousin, the King of has spent his career making As the plot thickens, so does the carnage, as Denmark. When she arrives in Copenhagen, non-narrative visual essays exploring themes the bloodthirsty supernatural villain moves Caroline discovers to her dismay that His contrasting the alienation of modern life into the mortal realm, posing undeniable Majesty Christian VII (Mikkel Boe Følsgaard) with the serenity of spiritual existence. Shot danger to tortured Ellison and his unwitting is an infantile idiot. The tortuous tedium of over the course of nearly five years across five family if they remain in that cursed house. A

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 30 MARCH/APRIL 2013 formulaic and predictable film directed with health-food addict, is into denial. Not that been won in neighboring a heavy hand by Scott Derrickson, this is an Pete has much to rejoice about, however: Holland). We see Verstraete optional purchase, at best. (S. Granger) his record label is in financial ruin (despite as a youthful anti-Cold heroic efforts to make ‘70s star Graham Parker War protester (and partner Skyfall HHHH relevant again). And, unbeknownst to Deb- in a fleeting ménage-à- MGM, 143 min., PG-13, DVD: bie, Pete has been secretly slipping money to trois) with lifelong friend $29.98, Blu-ray: $39.99 his spendthrift father (Albert Brooks), who Thomas Dhondt (Geert celebrates his has a young wife and identical triplet tod- Van Rampelberg). While 50th cinematic birthday in dlers. Meanwhile, Debbie realizes that her Verstraete enters politics, grand style, with Daniel trendy clothing boutique is losing money; Dhondt becomes a doctor; in fact, it is he Craig embarking on his in fact, thousands of dollars are missing and who initially recognizes Verstraete’s double- third exotic action-adven- suspicion falls on her employees (Megan Fox, vision problems as the early onset of partic- ture, delivering a compelling performance Charlyne Yi). Plus, Debbie is coping with ularly aggressive MS. As his body fails him as ’s iconic secret agent. In the a tense reconciliation with her estranged in the late 1990s, Verstraete editorializes in spectacular prologue, Bond chases a thief father (), who has re-married the media for “death with dignity,” despite across rooftops in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar on and started a second family. To call Pete and much controversy. The film does not mini- a motorcycle, pursuing the man onto the top Debbie’s biting, bickering relationship dys- mize the pain that Verstraete’s death wish of a speeding train, and almost being killed in functional is a gross understatement (many of causes for his family (especially his loving the process by fellow field agent Eve (Naomie their intimate marital squabbles take place in and religious parents), but there are also Harris). What’s been stolen is a device con- the bathroom, where Pete hides to play games elements of humor and affirmation in what taining the real names of every British Secret on his iPad). Mann is Apatow’s real-life wife might otherwise be a very depressing story. Service agent embedded within terrorist orga- and their children appear as Pete and Debbie’s A powerful, timely drama that touches on nizations around the world. One-by-one, the overindulged offspring, with Jason Segel, medical ethics and critical-care issues, this agents are being assassinated, plus the new Chris O’Dowd, Lena Dunham, and Melissa is highly recommended. (C. Cassady) London headquarters of MI6 is blown up in McCarthy lending support. A foul-mouthed, a cyber-terrorist attack. This breach infuriates forced comedy that simply isn’t funny, this is The Twilight Saga: Intelligence and Security Chairman Gareth optional, at best. (S. Granger) Breaking Dawn, Part 2 Mallory (Ralph Fiennes), who wants to retire HHH M (Judi Dench). M remains, although MI6 is This Must Be the Place Summit, 115 min., PG-13, quite different after headquarters is moved HHH1/2 DVD: $30.98, Blu-ray: $39.99, underground to Churchill’s old war bunker. Anchor Bay, 118 min., R, DVD: Mar. 2 Here, geeky, new weapons-and-technology $24.99, Blu-ray: $29.99, Mar. Proclaiming this syrupy, guru Q (Ben Whishaw) arms 007 with only 12 suspenseful, surreal final a Walther PPK and a tiny tracking device (no Writer-director Paolo Sor- segment as the Twilight franchise’s best more exploding pens and other outlandish rentino’s This Must Be the may be a case of damning with faint praise. devices). Bond is off to and Macau, Place successfully combines Birthed in Stephenie Meyer’s YA fiction, the where he’s enticed by sexy Severine (Bérénice many elements—a tale of fathers and sons, a tormented central duo—brooding, chiv- Marlohe), who leads him to flamboyantly , the continuing nightmare of the alrous Edward Cullen () ruthless Silva (), one of the Holocaust—into a charming, touching, and and the formerly awkward and uncertain most deviously shrewd and dangerous of visually ravishing film. is remark- Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart)—are now all Bond villains. Bond will ultimately rev able as Cheyenne, a reclusive one-time rock the parents of a half-vampire/half-human up the Aston Martin DB5 and take off for icon with a high-pitched voice and childlike daughter, Renesmee (Mackenzie Foy), who Skyfall, his old Scottish manor house, which way of speaking. Stooped over, with long, is constantly accompanied by protective is presided over by its grizzled caretaker (Al- stringy hair that he keeps blowing away from werewolf Jacob Black (Taylor Lautner). Black bert Finney). Under Sam Mendes’ direction, his eyes, Cheyenne leaves his Dublin estate imprinted on her at birth, claiming the Skyfall achieves a droll, deft balancing of to cross the Atlantic in order to see his dy- infant as his soul mate, and nicknaming the franchise’s traditional espionage with a ing father. Arriving too late, Cheyenne takes her Nessie. “Nessie?” Bella says indignantly. timely and thrilling sociopolitical twist. One up the old man’s crusade to track down the “You nicknamed my daughter after the of the best Bonds ever, this is highly recom- Auschwitz guard who humiliated him while Loch Ness monster?” Not surprisingly, mended. Editor’s Choice. (S. Granger) he was a prisoner, a mission that turns into trouble lies ahead for the Cullen clan as a picaresque road trip, taking Cheyenne to the contemptuous Volturi—led by devious HH Michigan, New Mexico, and Utah—towards Aro (Michael Sheen)—travel from Italy to This Is 40 a kind of personal redemption. Also featur- Universal, 134 min., R, DVD: the snowy Pacific Northwest to examine the $29.98, Blu-ray: $34.98, Mar. ing Frances McDormand and Judd Hirsch, half-immortal child and decide if a punish- 22 this imaginative, sly, funny, and ultimately able crime of miscegenation has been com- profound film is highly recommended. Reprising their Knocked mitted. To bolster their ranks, the Cullens (F. Swietek) Up supporting roles, Paul recruit undead comrades from around the Rudd and Leslie Mann have world, including a revenge-seeking Tran- morphed from Lifestyles of Time of My Life HHH1/2 sylvanian duo (Guri Weinberg, Noel Fisher) the Rich, Ribald, and Rowdy into Lifestyles Strand, 121 min., in Dutch w/English subtitles, not and an outspoken bohemian (Lee Pace). of the Selfish, Spoiled, and Stressed in writer- rated, DVD: $24.99, Mar. 19 Director Bill Condon, who shot this film director Judd Apatow’s quasi-autobiographi- Filmmaker Nic Balthazar’s striking, concurrently with Part 1, serves up plenty of cal This Is 40. In suburban Los Angeles, Pete fact-based Belgian film stars Koen De outrageously campy CGI vampirism, with (Rudd) and Debbie (Mann) are handling their Graeve as Milan “Mario” Verstraete, a supernaturally formidable, butt-kicking respective 40th birthdays quite differently. 40-year-old man afflicted with multiple vampire Bella getting seriously bloodthirsty Cupcake-loving Pete is celebrating, while sclerosis, who campaigned for his govern- during this ferocious final fantasy show- Debbie, an angst-ridden sneaky-smoker/ ment to legalize assisted suicide (as had down. Recommended. (S. Granger)

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 32 MARCH/APRIL 2013 MBFHE050 97 MINUTES | ENGLISH UPC 7-41360-53818-4 (DVD) | $24.95 SRP UPC 7-41360-53820-7 (BLU-RAY) | $29.95 SRP

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www.musicboxfi lms.com White Elephant HH1/2 the smothering culture. Unfortunately, that computer-animated feature recalls many Strand, 109 min., in Spanish isn’t just metaphor: Rasoulof is currently serv- video games of yesteryear as Ralph befriends w/English subtitles, not rated, ing time for his artistic “crimes” (along with nine year-old Vanellope von Schweetz (Sarah DVD: $27.99, Apr. 2 other Iranian filmmakers), making this both Silverman), a feisty girly “glitch” from the The title of filmmaker a timely commentary on Iran and a timeless candy-colored, anime-influenced cart-rac- ’s drama refers portrait of a barbaric culture that justifies its ing game Sugar Rush Speedway, and grapples to a large, unfinished hospi- brutality with religion and tradition. Highly with fearless Sgt. Calhoun (Jane Lynch), tal project—dating back to recommended. (S. Axmaker) who leads her squad against extraterrestrial the Peron era in —on the border of computer viruses known as Cy-Bugs in the hi- a big-city slum. It has become the headquar- The Wise Kids HHH1/2 def, hyper-violent Hero’s Duty. Unfortunately, ters of crusading “slum priest” Father Julián Wolfe, 95 min., not rated, hot-tempered Ralph accidentally hatches a (Ricardo Darin), who ministers to the city’s DVD: $24.95 rogue Cy-Bug invader that clings to him as worst barrio. When Father Julián discovers An award-winning fa- he escapes from one game to another and that he is terminally ill, he recruits a possible vorite on the LGBT film threatens to obliterate the entire Arcade. successor, Belgian Father Nicolás (Jérémie festival circuit, writer-direc- Gamers will appreciate the nostalgic insider Renier), a self-doubting man traumatized tor ’s warm, jokes, while others will simply enjoy the fun by the fact that he survived a massacre in intelligent drama set in story of this Oscar-nominated family film. his village parish by death squads. The two Charleston, SC, focuses on three teenage best Recommended. (S. Granger) renegade priests mediate turf wars between friends—Tim (Tyler Ross), Brea (Molly Kunz), drug dealers and try to shield at-risk youth and Laura (Allison Torem)—who have just Zero Dark Thirty from murder by the brutal police—efforts graduated from high school. All three belong HHHH not enthusiastically supported by the power- to the same Baptist church, but only Laura Sony, 157 min., R, DVD: ful Catholic hierarchy, which is focused on seems to fully embrace religion. Brea is the $30.99, Blu-ray: $40.99, Mar. putting a hero-of-the-people priest, slain in pastor’s daughter, but she is having a crisis of 19 the , into the process for Vatican-ap- faith, while Tim is flummoxed about coming Director Kathryn Bigelow proved sainthood. White Elephant is less a to terms with being gay. Cone wisely dials traces the long hunt for Osa- spiritual drama than a social one, so view- down the potential dramatic decibel level to ma Bin Laden in this Oscar- ers may not be particularly surprised when allow the multiple stories to unfold in a quiet nominated true-life thriller, concentrating matinee-idol handsome Nicolás has a steamy and sensitive manner that is both moving on the arduous and often frustrating process topless sex scene with resident model-pretty and surprising. As a result, the thorny issues of tracking down the elusive orchestrator of activist Luciana (Martina Gusman). Still, of coming out, coming-of-age, and coming the 9/11 terrorist attack on the World Trade the film vividly conveys an environment to terms with one’s religious principles are Center. Beginning with a dark screen and where unsparing violence can break out at blended into a subtle narrative that is both emotional sound-bites of phone calls from any moment, and the sense of tragedy and mature and laced with gentle humor. The terrified people trapped in the Twin Towers entrenched injustice mostly overcomes the three young actors at the story’s core serve up on that terrible morning, Zero Dark Thirty melodramatics and contrivance. A strong marvelous performances—especially Torem, segues two years ahead to , where a optional purchase. (C. Cassady) who takes what could have been a shrill captured prisoner is brutally interrogated and stereotypical role and offers a thoughtful sexually humiliated. Single-minded CIA ana- The White Meadows exploration of a religion-driven young person lyst Maya (Oscar nominee ) HHH1/2 trying to cope with her friend’s homosexual- is patiently gathering and diligently collating Global Film Initiative, 93 min., ity. Highly recommended. (P. Hall) scraps of information from various sources. in Farsi w/English subtitles, not Over a long period, she gradually becomes rated, DVD: $24.95 Wreck-It Ralph HHH convinced that, contrary to the opinion of Iranian director Mo- , 108 min., PG, the dismissive men who outrank her, Bin hammad Rasoulof delivers DVD: $29.99, Blu-ray: $39.99, Laden is not hiding in a cave somewhere in a stinging critique of the Mar. 5 the hills, but instead has taken refuge in a sub- oppressive, authoritarian culture of con- Video arcade characters urban compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan, temporary Iran in this bitter satire set on a come to life in Rich Moore’s where he continues to mastermind Al Qaeda metaphorical string of islands in a misty salt animated Disney charmer operations. Although no one else is as sure as marsh. The “white meadows” refer to the Wreck-It Ralph. At Litwak’s she is—including top-level Washington op- bleached white beaches, coated by salt that Arcade, Ralph (voiced by John C. Reilly)—a eratives—Maya’s unwavering determination has left them barren and dead, much like the demolition-expert villain in the game Fix-It prevails in the decision-making process. The local society: medieval cultures existing in Felix, Jr.—dreams of gaining respect and title is military jargon for 12:30 a.m., when isolated pockets. It’s like an Iranian Gulliver’s acceptance…like the game’s titular good- Navy SEALS raided the compound on May 2, Travels exploring political and religious guy with a magic hammer (Jack McBrayer), 2011. Highly recommended. Editor’s Choice. culture as seen through the eyes of a “tear whose repair skills make him a hero to the (S. Granger) collector,” a boatman from the mainland who in-game Nicelanders. A smashing bad guy comes to hear their woes and take away their for 30 years, Ralph confesses his secret at sorrows by collecting their tears in a glass his weekly “Bad-Anon” 12-step support Online vial. Brutal rituals (such as human sacrifice, group. But Ralph’s aspirations are thwarted Visit Video Librarian Online (www. politely referred to as a “marriage” and treated until he visits Game Central Station, a huge videolibrarian.com) during March and as a holy honor by all but the virgin bride) and surge-protector terminal, where he embarks April for DVD/Blu-ray-specific comments punishments abound amidst a culture of con- on a personal quest that takes him through added to the video movies reviewed here, formity and intolerance that is maintained by multiple digital gaming generations as he as well as new reviews, including Holy Mo- blind unquestioned obedience to patriarchy. tries to prove that just because he was pro- tors, Hyde Park on Hudson, The Impossible, Rebels, whether they are runaways, heroes, or grammed to be evil it doesn’t mean he can’t Killing Them Softly, and much more! artists with individual visions, don’t survive become what he really desires. This inventive,

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 34 MARCH/APRIL 2013 Classic Films TV Anger Management: which sends all three characters into a limbo Duffy as Bobby, Linda Gray as Sue Ellen, and Season One HHH that leaves everything precariously on edge. especially Larry Hagman as that ultimate Lionsgate, 2 discs, 220 min., Compiling all 13 episodes from the 2012 villain, J.R., the scheming, Stetson-wearing not rated, DVD or Blu-ray: second season, extras include a “making-of” oil man who returns from a hospital stay $29.98 featurette, an interview, and footage from the determined to get back what he believes is Charlie Sheen began his 2012 San Diego Comic-Con. Recommended. his rightful inheritance, and willing to ma- return to —follow- (S. Axmaker) nipulate even his own offspring in order to ing a public meltdown that achieve his ends (of course, John Ross proves ended his reign at —with Californication: The Fifth to be as duplicitous as his old man, although this direct (and very funny) shot at the media Season HH not as adept). Even with Hagman on board, circus, in which the actor still boasts the easy Paramount, 2 discs, 342 min., the new Dallas doesn’t carry the same wacky presence, self-effacing attitude, deadpan re- not rated, DVD: $45.98 fascination of its predecessor, and his death actions, and stealth timing that made him a Showtime has a knack for after filming the first half of the second sea- superstar. In this FX-aired production, Sheen making shows built around son casts doubt over the series’ future. But plays Charlie Goodson, a former pro ball- screwed-up, self-destructive as the swan song of an engaging ham in his player and reformed rage-aholic, who is now characters who manage to iconic role, this is a guilty pleasure. Compil- an anger management counselor. Although be funny, sexy, and even likable while giving ing all 10 episodes from the 2012 first season, effective on his job, Charlie’s private life is a in to their worst impulses (and rarely consid- DVD extras include audio commentary on cascade of bad decisions, including sleeping ering how this will affect family and friends). the pilot, behind-the-scenes , and with his own therapist, Kate (Selma Blair). One of the most entertaining is David Duch- deleted scenes. Recommended. (F. Swietek) But he has a surprisingly mature détente ovny’s Hank Moody, a novelist, screenwriter, with his ex-wife, Jennifer (Shawnee Smith), and full-time hedonist who has—in seasons Deathtrap HHH and wants to be a good dad to his daughter, past—slept with hookers, students, and the Warner, 116 min., PG, Blu-ray: Sam (Daniela Bobadilla), easily the healthiest teenage daughter of his former spouse’s new $21.99 and most aware character in the show. Along boyfriend. This fifth season finds Hank fly- Based on Ira Levin’s in- with a supporting cast that includes Brett ing from his New York City home base to geniously plotted Broadway Butler (as the local bartender), Michael Boat- Los Angeles in order to rewrite a screenplay. hit, 1982’s Deathtrap is a man (Charlie’s sardonic neighbor), and Barry Here, Hank finds his ex-wife, Karen (Natascha witty and clever murder Corbin (the obligatory crotchety old man in McElhone), now remarried, and his daughter, mystery built around four his weekly group), real-life pop Martin Sheen Becca (Madeleine Martin), in love with Tyler characters: Broadway playwright Sidney makes a guest appearance as Charlie’s dad. (Scott Michael Foster), a smug, cheating jerk Bruhl (), whose career is sliding Balancing raunchy jokes with heartwarm- of a boyfriend (essentially a young Hank). downhill; Myra (Dyan Cannon), his nervous ing lessons, Sheen once again seems right Meanwhile, Hank develops a contentious wife; Helga (), the psychic next at home. Compiling all 10 episodes from relationship with rapper-turned-movie-star door; and Clifford (Christopher Reeve), a the 2012 debut season, extras include an Samurai Apocalypse (RZA). This time around, precocious student from one of Sidney’s interview with Sheen, a behind-the-scenes Hank is relatively responsible and restrained, workshops who has written what looks to be a featurette, and a gag reel. Recommended. but he’s still unable to actually commit to sure-fire stage hit called Deathtrap. In the first (S. Axmaker) anyone, which brings out the ire and venge- act, Sidney concocts a scheme to kill Clifford fulness of New York girlfriend Carrie (Natalie and steal his play, after which the story twists Being Human: The Zea). Unfortunately, while Californication can and turns and twists again. The majority of Complete Second be engaging, it’s mostly due to Duchovny’s the action takes place in the Bruhls’ home, easygoing charm and chemistry with the and while director Sidney Lumet doesn’t Season HHH quite overcome the source’s stagey quality, eOne, 4 discs, 572 min., not other characters, not because of any life les- rated, DVD or Blu-ray: $39.98 sons discovered while routinely diving into he deftly moves characters in and out of this excessive behavior. Compiling all 12 episodes tale that is more about concept and clever- This Syfy-aired American ness than story and character. In this battle incarnation of the original from the 2012 fifth season, this is an optional purchase. (S. Axmaker) of wits, Caine sinks his teeth into the role of British series—about a vam- a fading writer who pens a better plot for his pire, a werewolf, and a ghost who become own machinations than his theatrical works, roommates—holds its own just fine as it con- Dallas: The Complete while Reeve matches him as a cagey young tinues to stake out a separate identity. After HHH First Season man with a savage intelligence and a driving establishing the premise in the first season— Warner, 3 discs, 438 min., not self-interest. Making its Blu-ray debut, this is three former humans attempting to live nor- rated, DVD: $39.98 recommended. (S. Axmaker) mal lives—the -based show presents Daytime soap operas are the characters with even greater challenges. an endangered species, but Bloodsucking Aidan () is lured the nighttime variety is en- Downton Abbey: Season back into the schemes of the ruling undead joying a resurgence—wit- 3 HHH1/2 monarchy, forcing him to kill once again; the ness this TNT of the CBS hit series PBS, 3 discs, 495 min., not feral Josh (Sam Huntington) passes his curse Dallas (an international craze that ran for 14 rated, DVD: $49.99, Blu-ray: on to a woman and puts himself on the line seasons before expiring in 1991). The new $54.99 to cure her; and the spectral Sally (Meaghan series introduces a fresh generation of South- The third season of this Rath) gives in to her dark side in her desire fork Ranch Ewings—J.R.’s bad-boy son, John lavish British costume dra- to interact with the material world. Together, Ross (Josh Henderson), and Bobby’s goody ma, which has won a huge the trio not only leave behind a lot of victims, two-shoes adopted son, Christopher (Jesse American audience during its PBS Masterpiece but also lose the support they used to provide Metcalfe), who spar over the ranch, the family Classic airing, eases into the 1920s with wed- one another; as a result, they spiral into their business, and Elena (Jordana Brewster), the dings and funerals, births and deaths, and an respective destructive instincts. Being Human woman they both love. But the real lure is aristocracy cherishing the past but reluctantly pulls out the stops during the season finale, the return of stars from the original—Patrick dragged into the present. While patriarch

MARCH/APRIL 2013 35 VIDEO LIBRARIAN Robert Crawley, Earl of Grantham (Hugh taries and intros by White. Recommended. (“Some People,” “Everything’s Coming Up Bonneville), desperately looks for funds to (S. Axmaker) Roses,” “Rose’s Turn”) with such gusto that keep his manor solvent after losing a fortune, it’s clear she’s living her own show business he and his wife, Cora (Elizabeth McGovern), dreams through her children. The burlesque welcome her American mother, Martha (Shir- Girls: The Complete First scenes are played with a wink and a nod, ley MacLaine), who arrives for the wedding Season HHH making this a surprisingly family-friendly of granddaughter Mary (Michelle Dockery) HBO, 300 min., TV-MA, DVD: (given the storyline) musical. Made in 1962, 2 discs, $39.99; Blu-ray/DVD to Matthew Crawley (Dan Stevens). Martha Combo: 3 discs, $49.99 Gypsy feels like an old-fashioned affair, with brings her tart personality and modern ideas big musical numbers, colorful sets, flamboy- Creator-writer-star Lena into a lively (and often affectionate) clash ant costumes, and outsized performances. Dunham offers a very dif- with ’s Dowager Countess Despite being a bit long and occasionally ferent perspective on life in the Big Apple (their exchanges are highlights of the early lumbering, the film remains a fan favorite. than HBO’s previous femme-centric comedy episodes). But there’s plenty more Making a welcome debut on Blu-ray, extras series, , focusing on four among the titled lords and ladies—as well as include two musical numbers cut from the educated young women from middle-class the servants, who have their own inviolate movie. Recommended. (S. Axmaker) hierarchy, with butler Carson (Jim Carter) backgrounds—aspiring writer Hannah presiding at the top. Creator-writer Julian (Dunham), art gallery assistant Marnie (Al- Hannah and Her Sisters Fellowes’ Downton Abbey continues to smartly lison Williams), and cousins Jessa (Jemima HHH1/2 mix a wistful idealization of this world of Kirke) and Shoshanna (Zosia Mamet)—who are measuring the distance between their Fox, 107 min., PG-13, Blu-ray: privilege and ritual with a wily critique of $24.99 the aristocracy. Presenting the uncut U.K. aspirations and their realities, with frank and ’s 1986 versions of all eight regular episodes, origi- sometimes discomfiting humor. Dunham Hannah and Her Sisters—his nally broadcast in the U.S. in 2013, plus the assigns most of the humiliations to her own biggest success since Annie special “A Journey to the Highlands” finale, character, who puts up with a self-absorbed Hall—finds the writer-director returning to extras include behind-the-scenes featurettes. boyfriend named Adam (Adam Driver) and the same general subject matter of modern Highly recommended. (S. Axmaker) wants her parents’ financial support so she doesn’t have to quit her (unpaid) intern- life and the challenges of sustaining roman- ship and get a job while she continues to tic relationships, but this time within the Enlightened: The not write her novel. Girls isn’t much like its context of family. Siblings Hannah (Mia Complete First Season sister shows—the sex here is awkward, the Farrow), Lee (), and Holly HHH romance is uncomfortable rather than cute, (Dianne Wiest) are part of a tightly-knit clan HBO, 2 discs, 300 min., TV- and there’s a lot of settling for the status quo presided over by their often bickering par- MA, DVD: $34.98, Blu-ray: rather than insisting on something better. ents, Norma and Evan (Maureen O’Sullivan, $39.98 As the Golden Globe-winning first season Farrow’s real-life mother, and Lloyd Nolan). Actress and progresses, the four main characters—and Over the course of two years (marked by writer Mike White teamed the men in their lives—gradually become three Thanksgiving celebrations), Hannah’s up to create this offbeat and quite compelling more interesting. Compiling all 10 episodes husband, Elliot (Michael Caine), falls in love original series for HBO, a mix of social satire from the 2012 debut run, extras include with Lee, who is involved with tortured Soho and character drama starring Dern as corpo- audio commentaries, interviews, and a artist Frederick (). Meanwhile, rate executive Amy Jellicoe, who returns to behind-the-scenes featurette. The Blu-ray Hannah’s ex-spouse, Mickey (Allen), renews work following a very public breakdown and a release adds audition footage, deleted a relationship with struggling actress Holly. subsequent holistic treatment program. Amy scenes, and bonus DVD and digital copies. Like most of Allen’s characters, all are affluent vows to live a more centered, peaceful, help- Recommended. (S. Axmaker) and intellectually and artistically inclined, ful existence—“I will change and I will be an and the bittersweet story superbly balances agent of change” is her mantra—but that’s Gypsy HHH human drama with neurotic comedy (most of not easy, especially after she’s demoted to the Warner, 143 min., not rated, it supplied by Mickey, who searches for God basement with the rest of the firm’s washouts Blu-ray: $21.99 through various religions), while displaying and losers. Even as Amy tries to come to terms Based on the memoirs of a warmth not always seen in Allen’s films. with her ex-husband, Levi (), stripper Gypsy Rose Lee, this Playful, affectionate, and very funny, the and connect with her emotionally distant movie musical based on the film is a lovely celebration of true romance mother, Helen (Diane Ladd, Dern’s real-life hit stage play is as much the and Allen’s belief that the power of laughter mother), she hasn’t managed to conquer her story of Rose (Rosalind Rus- can save the human soul. Nominated for Best own anger and solipsism. Amy is concerned sell), a domineering mother who pushes her Picture and Best Director, Caine and Wiest with other people in an abstract sense (she’s two daughters into an itinerant existence on won for their supporting on a campaign to make the company more the vaudeville circuit, as it is of Louise (Natalie performances, while Allen took home the environmentally and socially responsible) Wood), the wallflower daughter who becomes Oscar for Original Screenplay. Also featuring but she fails to see how her behavior actually the legendary burlesque queen. Most of the Lewis Black, Carrie Fisher, Julie Kavner, and impacts those around her. Despite the cutting film focuses on the early years, when Louise Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Hannah and Her Sisters satire, Enlightened also offers a compassionate exists happily in the shadow of “Dainty June” makes a welcome debut on Blu-ray. Highly portrait of an individual who really wants to (Ann Jillian), her outgoing, naturally talented recommended. (S. Axmaker) be better but doesn’t know how. Granted, the younger sister. Until Louise is ultimately show doesn’t shy away from Amy’s failures or shoved into the spotlight, Wood plays the The Hour 2 HHH1/2 contradictions, but it also doesn’t ridicule or role as an easygoing tomboy who wants to BBC, 2 discs, 360 min., not rated, DVD: $34.98, criticize; instead, the series is more interested please but would rather see mama pull back Blu-ray: $39.98 in watching Amy figure things out and slowly and just get married to her potential fourth Upping the ante on the first season, this progress toward becoming the person she husband, the impossibly patient Herbie (Karl superb British series about a BBC news show imagines she is. Compiling all 10 episodes Malden). Russell’s Rose, meanwhile, is big set during the 1950s stars Romola Garai as from 2011, extras include audio commen- and brassy, blasting her signature numbers ambitious and dedicated producer Bel Rowley,

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 36 MARCH/APRIL 2013 Ben Whishaw as fearless compilation of three BBC American remake starring now (and somewhat reckless) in- miniseries’ (which aired appearing on , House of Cards Trilogy vestigative reporter Freddie in the U.S. on Masterpiece is remastered for DVD and bows on Blu-ray. Lyon, and Dominic West as Theatre) serves up a fero- Extras include episode audio commentaries, on-camera host Hector Mad- cious political satire. In all and behind-the-scene featurettes. Highly den, a high-living celebrity three, Ian Richardson stars recommended. (S. Axmaker) whose ego and womanizing as Francis Urquhart (F.U. to are a cover for his self-doubt. his friends), the Machiavel- Indiscreet HHH Newsworthy this season are rumblings of a lian Chief Whip of Britain’s Conservative Olive, 100 min., not rated, government conspiracy behind the decision Party—a most seductively ruthless politician DVD: $19.95, Blu-ray: $29.95 to put U.S. nuclear missiles on British soil; a who entertainingly claws his way to the top. Directed by Stanley scandal that hits a member of the team; and In House of Cards (1990), Urquhart declares Donen, this 1958 American a new boss in the form of Randall Brown war on everyone who stands in his way, using romance with a continental (Peter Capaldi), a seemingly dour, old-school deceit, blackmail, murder, and even a lovely attitude was adapted by veteran who arrives as head of news and turns young journalist () until from his out to be sharper and more dedicated than she becomes a liability. Having reached the Broadway play Kind Sir and cagily re-titled to any of them initially realize. The writing is pinnacle of power in To Play the King (1993), cash in on the cast, which reunites Notorious excellent, offering interesting personal stories Urquhart takes on an idealistic monarch stars Cary Grant and . The set against the late ‘50s culture—a time of (Michael Kitchen) who is using his symbolic latter plays Anna Kalman, a famous London- more pronounced racism and sexism—while office to curb Urquhart’s corrupt and abusive based stage actress introduced to charming exploring a dark tale of political corruption behavior. And just as Urquhart is ready to re- NATO economic expert Philip Adams (Grant) and blackmail wrapped up in Cold War tire with his reputation and fortune assured, by her sister Margaret (Phyllis Calvert) and anxiety. Compiling all six 2012 episodes, he finds himself the pawn in another politi- brother-in-law Alfred (Cecil Parker), who are extras include a behind-the-scenes featurette. cal game in The Final Cut (1995), the juicy eager to break the melancholy Anna out of Highly recommended. (S. Axmaker) conclusion to the rocket rise and fitting fall her funk. The attraction is immediate, but of this despicably fascinating political devil. Philip is married, which does not stop them House of Cards Trilogy HHH1/2 Adding to the fun is the conceit of Rich- from engaging in a passionate liaison when BBC, 617 min., not rated, DVD: 4 discs, $39.98; ardson turning to the camera for intimate he’s posted to Paris. Donen directs with a Blu-ray: 3 discs, $49.99 asides that make viewers not just privy to deft touch, conjuring up a delicately discreet Adapted by acclaimed scripter Andrew Da- his maneuverings, but practically accessories drama during the first two acts before a comic vies from the novels by Michael Dobbs, this to his crimes. Released to coincide with the twist sends the film into broad comedy. Ulti-

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MARCH/APRIL 2013 37 VIDEO LIBRARIAN mately, however, the plot is fairly thin, and tained narrative arc while also following nificent HBO original series while sustained by the charm, grace, and the rocky roads of the core characters. Here, about thoroughbred horse chemistry of Grant and Bergman, Indiscreet Givens finds himself pitted against a pair racing culture was creat- never really breaks free of its stage origins of villains: Chicago mob operator Robert ed and written by David (playing out largely in Anna’s lavish apart- Quarles (Neal McDonough)—essentially Milch (of Deadwood fame). ment). Still, this is quite entertaining and a carpetbagger who comes to Kentucky to A marvel of character and sure to please fans of Grant and Bergman, establish a drug empire in Givens’ back- storytelling, with a chemis- although hardly the best from the director yard—and a backwoods godfather named try, rhythm, and sensibility or the stars (Donen and Grant would team Ellstin Limehouse (Mykelti Williamson), who unlike anything else on TV, up again a few years later for the effervescent conducts his shifty business from a barbecue Luck features as Ace, a mob- Charade). Recommended. (S. Axmaker) shack. Justified features an almost instinc- ster fresh out of prison who is determined to tively self-destructive hero in Givens (who make his mark with a gambling empire, using Jackson 5ive: The sabotages any hope of reconciliation with his a California track as his base. But much of the Complete Animated ex-wife this season), vivid supporting players color comes from the local denizens, includ- (especially Walton Goggins as philosophical ing horse owner Walter (Nick Nolte), Peruvian Series HHH crime boss Boyd Crowder), and smart screen- trainer Turo (John Ortiz), jockeys Rosie (Kerry Classic Media, 506 min., not writing in a pulp-fiction format. Compiling Condon) and Leon (Tom Payne), veterinarian rated, DVD: 2 discs, $32.99; Blu-ray: 4 discs, $39.99 all 13 episodes from the 2012 third season, Jo (Jill Hennessy), driver Gus (a marvelously extras include audio commentaries, behind- loose and easy Dennis Farina), and an oddly In 1971, beloved family the-scenes featurettes, deleted scenes, and comic quartet of gamblers—Jerry (Jason pop group the Jackson Five outtakes. The Blu-ray edition also features Gedrick), Marcus (Kevin Dunn), Lonnie (Ian hit Saturday morning TV in animated form an interview with Olyphant and Goggins. Hart), and Renzo (Ritchie Coster)—who live for a cartoon series produced by Rankin/Bass. Recommended. (S. Axmaker) in adjoining rooms in a seedy motel and pitch Serving up a mix of comedy, light-hearted in to buy a horse of their own. Unfortunately, adventure, and music, the show featured Luck will never see a second season; the show voice actors (Joel Cooper as Jermaine, Don- Kit Carson HH1/2 was shut down after the accidental death of ald Fullilove as Michael, Mike Martinez as Hen’s Tooth, 97 min., not rated, DVD: $19.95 three horses. Collecting all nine episodes Tito, Edmund Sylvers as Marlon, and Craig from 2011–12, extras include audio commen- Grandy as Jackie), and each episode included This 1940 Western stars taries and behind-the-scenes featurettes. An two complete songs by the actual Jackson athletic B-movie leading amazing series full of unexpected character Five, such as “ABC,” “I’ll Be There,” “I Want man (famed for journeys, surprising friendships, thrilling You Back,” and “Never Can Say Goodbye.” his later Technicolor sword- races, and heartbreaking losses, this is highly The Jackson Five are all cute, fun-loving and-sandal films) as famous recommended. (S. Axmaker) lads, traveling to concerts in a family jalopy scout Kit Carson, with Dana (when not flying coach), detouring on comic Andrews as Capt. John C. Fremont—a stiff, adventures (accidentally getting drafted, be- cultured cavalry officer and Carson’s rival A Man Vanishes ing mistaken for outlaws in the Wild West, for the affections of spirited settler Dolores HHH1/2 crash landing on a desert island), and being Murphy (Lynn Bari). The classic tale portrays Icarus Films, 4 discs, 130 min,. aided by Michael’s pet snake, Rosie, and a Carson as a freedom-loving explorer and in Japanese w/English subtitles, pair of mice named Ray and Charles. Diana trapper, traveling through the wide-open not rated, DVD: $44.98 Ross reportedly voices herself in the pilot (a frontier with Ape (Ward Bond), his buddy Japanese director Shohei storybook rewrite of the group’s discovery), (and conscience), who pushes Carson to Imamura’s (1926–2006) riv- and Paul Frees takes on an entire supporting help the pioneers, and draws the loner into eting 1967 documentary (or, cast of male characters. Overall, this is, like, considering the idea of marriage and social more properly, quasi-documentary) follows pretty groovy, with the funky music-video living. While Carson is drafted into aiding the investigation of the disappearance of a breaks sporting images and strobing rain- Fremont and his troops in guiding a wagon salesman named Tadashi Oshima shortly bow colors right out of Peter Max posters. train to California, the Mexican government before his planned marriage. Tadashi’s fian- More likely to appeal to nostalgic adults (which controlled the territory at the time) cée, Yoshie Hayakawa, joins the search, and than contemporary kids, this compilation sends guns to the plains Indians to declare over the course of the film—which includes presenting all 23 episodes from 1971-72 is war on the migrating Americans. The script is interviews with co-workers, relatives, and recommended. (S. Axmaker) unadventurous and episodic, while the racial chance witnesses—Yoshie not only becomes politics are era-specific primitive: the Mexi- attracted to the head investigator but also Justified: The Complete can officials are corrupt schemers and the comes to suspect that her sister was hav- Native Americans are bloodthirsty . ing an affair with Tadashi (and might have Third Season HHH But George B. Seitz, a studio vet who helmed Sony, 3 discs, 541 min., not killed him). The unsettling character of the rated, DVD: $55.99, Blu-ray: almost every Andy Hardy movie, is a decent narrative is enhanced by grainy images, $65.99 action director who makes effective use of overlapping sound that is often at odds with Monument Valley locations to give the film One of the better cable the visuals, and periodic cuts to a psychic an epic scope. Despite historical inaccuracies, on TV, this FX-aired whom Tadashi’s mother consults for news this is ultimately a solid piece of filmmaking crime show is based on a of her son. In one astonishing sequence, that should satisfy genre fans, making it a story (and later novel) by Elmore Leonard, Yoshie breaks the fourth wall by turning strong optional purchase. (S. Axmaker) maintaining the flavor of the author’s work to Imamura himself, who not only admits in its tale of U.S. Marshall Raylan Givens that he doesn’t know how or why Tadashi (Timothy Olyphant), a cowboy of a lawman Luck: The Complete First Season disappeared, but abruptly orders the set on punitively assigned to his home state of HHH1/2 which the scene is being filmed to be struck. A Kentucky (and the Southern crime culture HBO, 3 discs, 550 min., TV-MA, DVD: $59.99, work of stunning originality, A Man Vanishes he thought he had escaped). As in previous Blu-ray: $79.99 marked the beginning of Imamura’s embrace seasons, this one is built around a self-con- The first and only season of this mag- of nonfiction film, and this set includes five

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 38 MARCH/APRIL 2013 examples of his later works: In Search of the graphically comic, erotic terms, emphasizing (“life in conflict”) is not quite in Unreturned Soldiers in Thailand and In Search of the muck of the environment and the purely the same league: heavily focused on war, the Unreturned Soldiers in Malaysia (both from sensual desires that drive men and women to the film bombards the viewer with hypnotic 1971), The Pirates of Bubuan (1972), Outlaw- acts of greed and carnal indulgence. While and disturbing visuals of marching troops, Matsu Comes Home (1973), and Karayuki-san, plenty of skin is on display here, the nudity military action, and half-destroyed buildings, the Making of a Prostitute (1975). An essential is always presented in warts-and-all fashion but doesn’t say much about the horror of war set for any foreign cinema collection, this is (mostly featuring amateurs chosen for their beyond the fact that it is horrible. Somewhat highly recommended. (F. Swietek) non-movie-star looks) and earthy surround- paradoxically, The Qatsi Trilogy points a criti- ings. Pasolini himself appears as an assistant cal finger at encroaching technology, yet also Pan Am: The Complete to the painter Giotto to reflect on the inferi- manages to find the beauty inherent in some ority of a completed artwork compared with of the most dehumanizing of environments. Series HH1/2 Sony, 3 discs, 591 min., not one’s dream of what it might have been, a Remastered for DVD and debuting on Blu-ray, rated, DVD: $30.99 hint—perhaps—of the filmmaker’s later the set features extras including Reggio’s 1992 disenchantment, which led him to repudi- documentary short Anima Mundi, a demo Following the lead of Mad ate the trilogy. All three films feature styl- version of (with a soundtrack Men, this short-lived big- ishly evocative and often astonishing imagery featuring poet Allen Ginsberg), behind-the- budget network drama re- (such as the surrealistic vision of hell in The scenes featurettes, interviews, a new video creates the early 1960s world Canterbury Tales)—that shines in the new afterward by Reggio, a 2003 panel discussion of a quartet of young stewardesses who find a transfers here. Presented on remastered DVD on Naqoyqatsi, and a booklet with essays. freedom that other careers simply don’t offer and debuting on Blu-ray, the set’s abundant Highly recommended. (R. Pitman) women. The ostensible star is Christina Ricci extras include visual essays on The Decameron as Maggie, a smart, tart, rebellious young and Arabian Nights; documentaries on The woman who likes to push the boundaries of Schizo HH1/2 Canterbury Tales and The Decameron; deleted proper feminine behavior in an unforgiving Kino Lorber, 109 min., R, DVD: scenes from Arabian Nights; the 2005 TV $19.95, Blu-ray: $24.95 corporate culture where appearances are ev- documentary Via Pasolini on the filmmaker; erything; but the more interesting storylines This 1976 offering from interviews with composer Ennio Morricone go to costars Kelli Garner as Kate, a toughened British director Pete Walk- and production designer Dante Ferretti; ar- pro recruited by the CIA; as er—who, like Roger Cor- chival footage of Pasolini at the Berlin Film Laura, an idealistic Marilyn-esque beauty man and William Castle, Festival; and an illustrated booklet of critical who ends up in the New York art scene; and made exploitation movies essays, along with a translation of Pasolini’s Karine Vanasse, who brings a cosmopolitan in the 1960s and 1970s that mixed sex and “rejection” of the trilogy. Clearly designed air as Colette, a sweet and worldly French shocks—boasts a title that is obviously in- for adult audiences—The Canterbury Tales and flight attendant. Naturally, Pan Am also fea- tended to remind potential ticket-buyers of Arabian Nights both carry NC-17 ratings—this tures some pilots (Michael Mosley and Mike Psycho. But, like virtually all attempts to imi- is highly recommended. (F. Swietek) Vogel) and love interests (including Goran tate Hitchcock’s original, it falls considerably Visnjic as a Soviet-bloc activist), but the wom- short. An announcement of star ice skater en’s stories remain the focus. Unfortunately, The Qatsi Trilogy Samantha’s (Lynne Frederick) impending while the world-traveling plots bring viewers HHH1/2 wedding brings back an unwelcome stalker to some gorgeous locations, and the evoca- Criterion, 3 discs, 274 min., named William Haskin (Jack Watson)—a tion of the era is terrific (including the period PG, DVD or Blu-ray: $79.95 brooding man whom Samantha blames fashions), the writing never quite rises above Non-narrative film lovers for the brutal murder of her mother. Soon nighttime , tipping too frequently will certainly welcome The Samantha’s friends begin to be killed off into romantic wooziness and spy-movie com- Qatsi Trilogy, which com- in horrendous fashion (along with others, plications. Compiling all 14 episodes from piles all three dialogue-free such as a psychic Samantha approaches for its single 2011–12 season, extras include an visual essays directed by and help)—and Haskin threatens to come after interview with former Pan Am stewardess and memorably scored by . 1983’s her as well (once while she’s in the shower, executive producer Nancy Hult Ganis, and Koyaanisqatsi (a Hopi word, roughly translat- of course). Walker tries to keep viewers in behind-the-scenes featurettes. An optional ing as “life out of balance”) is thematically suspense before delivering what’s meant to be purchase. (S. Axmaker) the strongest of the trio, as the camera moves a big final twist (which is loudly telegraphed from the austere majestic landscapes of the by the title itself) in this gritty, low-budget Pier Paolo Pasolini’s American West to the metropolis, where time- production. Remastered for DVD and bowing lapse photography and slow-motion sequenc- on Blu-ray, extras include an interview with Trilogy of Life HHH1/2 es capture the joy, sadness, and monotony of the director. Likely to be of interest to genre Criterion, 352 min., in Italian fans, this is a strong optional purchase. [Note: w/English subtitles, R/NC-17, factory work and city life. 1988’s DVD: 4 discs, $79.95; Blu-ray: (“life in transition”) shifts the attention from Schizo is also included in the newly released 3 discs, $79.95 industrial America to the Third World—Bra- The Collection, along with the In the early 1970s, Pier zil, Egypt, Kenya, Peru, and Nepal. During the director’s House of Whipcord, The Comeback Paolo Pasolini—an Italian first half of the film, we see a lot of feet, hands, and Die Screaming, Marianne.] (F. Swietek) gay radical author and filmmaker who and backs: people working the earth (in one shocked and fascinated the European intel- wonderful overhead-shot sequence, a woman The Seven-Per-Cent ligentsia—attracted a larger international tosses wheat toward the sky while others Solution HHH audience with this gleefully lusty trilogy: rhythmically wave hand fans to blow away Shout! Factory, 113 min., PG, The Decameron (1971), The Canterbury Tales the chaff—a beautiful scene, reminiscent DVD/Blu-ray Combo: $26.99 (1972), and Arabian Nights (1974), all of of a Busby Berkeley routine, except that the Based on the same-titled which celebrated the pleasures of the flesh choreography here is totally natural). In the novel by Nicholas Meyer, by retelling bawdy tales drawn from Boccac- second half, the spotlight is on the cities, as this 1976 film imagines a cio, Chaucer, and the legendary Thousand we watch wave after wave of sometimes shuf- meeting between Sherlock Holmes (Nicol and One Nights. Pasolini cast these stories in fling, sometimes bustling humanity. 2002’s Williamson) and Sigmund Freud (Alan Arkin),

MARCH/APRIL 2013 39 VIDEO LIBRARIAN as engineered by Dr. Watson () black comedy, and messed-up people, but lead with experienced pro Ivy Lynn (Hilty), and Holmes’ older brother, Mycroft (Charles family loyalty and the support of a few good while Debra Messing is author and lyricist Gray). Worried about Holmes’ cocaine addic- friends keep this clan on track. Presenting Julia Houston and Borle is Tom Levitt, her tion (the title refers to his preferred mix of 7 all 12 episodes from the 2012 second season, sassy composing partner. Jack Davenport and percent cocaine and 93 percent water), the extras include behind-the-scenes featurettes, costar, and Uma Thurman well-meaning conspirators plant fake clues to cast interviews, deleted scenes, and a music fills a guest slot as a movie star who is cast to rouse Holmes from depression and lead him video. Recommended. (S. Axmaker) ramp up box-office appeal. Filled with divas to Austria. His subsequent introduction to and backstabbers, affairs and betrayals, hard Freud develops into a collaboration on a case : The lessons and double-crosses, Smash is a glitzy when one of Freud’s patients, former drug Fifteenth Season HHH affair with impressive musical numbers and addict Lola Deveraux (), is Fox, 484 min., not rated, DVD: melodramatic clichés big enough to play to kidnapped by a Turkish pasha. The ensuing 4 discs, $49.98; Blu-ray: 3 the cheap seats (such as a sabotage attempt chase leads to a swashbuckling encounter on discs, $59.99 involving a peanut allergy). Compiling all an express train through Europe. Meanwhile, Featuring burn-out met- 15 episodes from 2012’s first season, extras Freud investigates the roots of Holmes’ addic- al-loving bus driver Otto on include extended musical numbers, be- tion and his obsession with James Moriarty the cover, this 22-episode hind-the-scenes featurettes, deleted scenes, (played as a mousy little man by Laurence 2003-04 15th season of Matt Groening’s and a gag reel. A strong optional purchase. Olivier). Williamson seems overly mannered iconic animated series boasts a bevy of (S. Axmaker) as Holmes, and Duvall is awkwardly miscast gems. The set kicks off with the annual as the stalwart Watson; but Arkin’s Freud is a “Treehouse of Horror” Halloween show, an Sometimes a Great witty match for Holmes’ logic and intellect, Emmy-nominated three-parter that finds Notion HHH and Redgrave manages to be both fragile and Homer accidentally taking over the role of Shout! Factory, 114 min., PG, forceful. Meyer’s book is one of the best of the Death, nerdy Professor Frink’s father being Blu-ray: $19.98 Holmes mysteries to take on Sir Arthur Conan brought back to life, and Bart and Milhouse Based on the novel by Doyle’s famous sleuth, and director Herbert using a magical stopwatch to play pranks. Ken Kesey, 1970’s Sometimes Ross here demonstrates an appreciation for Other episodes feature guest stars such as a Great Notion tells the story the era and the characters. Extras include an , back as Homer’s mother (“My of a family of rugged individualists living in interview with Meyer. A timely DVD/Blu-ray Mother the Carjacker”); Isabel Sanford and Oregon lumber country. Flinty patriarch Hen- Combo release that nicely complements the William Daniels in “Milhouse Doesn’t Live ry Stamper (Henry Fonda) and his eldest son, resurgence of interest in Holmes (as evidenced Here Anymore”; Jon Lovitz returning as Hank (Paul Newman), share a confrontational in the two popular series’ Sherlock and Elemen- Marge’s high school flame in “The Ziff Who relationship with the world, which comes to tary), this is recommended. (S. Axmaker) Came to Dinner”; and Sarah Michelle Gellar a head during a logging strike. The Stampers as a rough ‘tween Bart meets in juvie. The continue to fulfill a timber contract, bringing : The best stories here are “Catch ‘Em If You Can,” them into direct conflict with the local com- Complete Second Season in which the kids track Marge and Homer munity. Michael Sarrazin costars as Hank’s HHH across the country on a missed-out vacation, younger half-brother, Leeland, who returns Warner, 630 min., not rated, and the hilarious U.K.-set “The Regina Mono- home after an extended absence, sporting DVD: 3 discs, $39.99; Blu-ray: logues,” with Tony Blair, Ian McKellen, and long hair and maverick ideas about personal 2 discs, $49.99 J.K. Rowling, who sarcastically answers Lisa’s responsibility and equality, while Lee Remick The second season of the request concerning the fate of Harry Potter, is Hank’s frustrated wife, Viv. Newman directs American incarnation of the “He grows up and marries you. Is that what with a focus on the physicality of the Stamp- British dramedy about an unconventionally you want to hear?” Extras include episode ers’ lives, from the hard work of logging in the functional dysfunctional family—relocated audio commentaries, an intro by Groening, a Oregon hills to the rough-and-tumble play from to South Chicago—finds behind-the-scenes featurette, deleted scenes, that often leads to brawling. The Stampers are the Gallagher clan still getting by without and sketch galleries. Exclusive to the Blu-ray not necessarily heroes—Henry seems to stir any help from their reprobate single father, release are bonus episodes (from earlier sea- the pot for his own amusement (he’s either Frank (William H. Macy). Eldest daughter sons). Recommended. (J. Williams-Wood) the last of the frontier mavericks or an ornery Fiona () keeps watch over old crank who rails against anyone telling her five siblings while hustling for jobs and Smash: Season One him what to do)—but the tension between trying to get ahead in the world. Plenty of HH1/2 the Stampers’ individualism and a sense of drama takes place in this crazy household: Universal, 4 discs, 649 min., communal responsibility feels just as relevant Lip (Jeremy Allen White), the family genius, not rated, DVD: $44.98 today. Highlighting the rugged beauty of the drops out of high school to help his pregnant A backstage-musical Pacific Northwest, this low-key drama about girlfriend; younger brother Ian (Cameron drama set around the cre- a vanishing way of life—making its Blu-ray Monaghan) tries to enlist in West Point; and ation of a (wholly fictional) debut—is recommended. (S. Axmaker) Grandma Peg (guest star Louise Fletcher) Broadway production, the comes to stay…after being released from big-budget NBC series Smash earns high Stalingrad HHH prison. But life grows really complicated marks for its original show tunes (thanks Hen’s Tooth, 138 min., in when the kids’ bipolar mom (Chloe Webb) to the veteran songwriting team of Marc German w/English subtitles, sweeps in with her particular brand of reck- Shaiman and Scott Wittman) and a cast not rated, DVD: $24.95, Blu- less chaos. And just when Fiona seems to be that features stage-seasoned performers such ray: $29.95 settled in to the new status quo, boyfriend as Megan Hilty and Christian Borle, along Joseph Vilsmaier’s sweep- Steve () is back, with a hot new with some TV vets. Unfortunately, the show ing WWII epic Stalingrad (and unwanted) Brazilian wife—a marriage also wobbles between contrived drama and (1993) follows a happy-go- not just of convenience but of survival after soap opera silliness. sweetheart lucky band of German sol- a run-in with a drug lord. True to its name, Katharine McPhee stars as small-town girl diers who are sent into hell: Russia, circa 1942. Shameless features loads of bad behavior, Karen Cartwright, who competes for the One of Hitler’s less intelligent military moves

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 40 MARCH/APRIL 2013 led to a second-front war that would become White Zombie HHH a progressive abbess who challenges the mired in protracted fighting as the German Kino, 67 min., not rated, DVD: greed of the monastery. Shot on location in Blitzkrieg met its match in the Russian winter. $24.95, Blu-ray: $29.95 Hungary, Austria, and Czechoslovakia, World The story focuses, in particular, on a group The Halperin brothers Without End is a handsome production with of soldiers—including Rollo (Jochen Nickel), (producer Edward and di- some impressive set pieces. In addition to the Otto (Sylvester Groth), Fritz (Dominique Hor- rector Victor) effectively compelling human drama, the miniseries of- witz), and Müller (Sebastian Rudolph)—un- re-create the gothic mood fers an interesting perspective on the Middle der the command of a green lieutenant, Hans of the Universal horror clas- Ages, the power of the church and the crown, von Witzland (Thomas Kretschmann), whose sics of the day on a B-movie budget for this and life during the Black Plague. Presenting initial high spirits are dashed by the relentless 1932 film, in which Bela Lugosi sinks his all eight episodes originally broadcast in brutality of war as the Battle of Stalingrad teeth into his best role since Dracula, playing 2012, extras include a “making-of” featurette. grinds on. Gradually, the men come to real- languorous hypnotist and voodoo master Recommended. (S. Axmaker) ize that Hitler is a meaningless concept on “Murder” Legendre. The story begins with the the Russian steppes—where survival takes nighttime arrival of Madeline Short (Madge More Boxed Sets priority. Heroism turns out to be not taking Bellamy) and her fiancé, Neil (John Harron), the enemy’s position at all costs, but rather to Haiti, where they witness a mysterious Hats Off to Dr. Seuss: looking out for one’s companions in a world burial and come face to face with the sear- Collector’s Edition (War- where madness has become the norm. A ing-eyed and goateed Legendre, a menacing ner, DVD: 5 discs, $44.98; haunting film that features spectacular battle and ferociously vindictive figure who supplies Blu-ray: 5 discs, $59.99). sequences, Stalingrad reminds us that war the local mills with zombie laborers and In tribute to the 75th an- unceasingly takes while giving very little in turns his enemies into personal servants. niversary of Dr. Seuss’s 1938 return. Re-released on DVD and debuting Plantation owner Charles Beaumont (Robert children’s story “The 500 on Blu-ray, extras include a “making-of” Frazer) wants to marry the engaged Madeline Hats of Bartholomew Cubbins,” this set featurette. Recommended. (R. Pitman) himself, and her refusal leads him to enlist includes the classic animated TV specials the services of Legendre, which brings unan- The Cat in the Hat, Green Eggs and Ham and Suddenly HH1/2 ticipated consequences. While the supporting Other Stories, The Lorax, How the Grinch Stole Image, 76 min., not rated, Blu- players are a bit stiff, Lugosi is mesmerizing, Christmas, and Horton Hears a Who! Extras ray: $19.99 and the oppressive atmosphere of fear and include a sing-along, bonus shorts, interactive In 1954, just as his career almost perpetual darkness inhabited by the puzzles, the documentary “In Search of Dr. was moving into a new, hollow-eyed walking dead makes this an ef- Seuss,” a booklet, and more. mature phase, Frank Sinatra fectively chilling watch. An overlooked classic starred in this low-budget of early American horror and the first true Maigret: Complete thriller that cast the affable zombie movie, White Zombie is presented here Collection (Acorn, DVD: screen performer as the vicious would-be in both digitally remastered and unrestored 4 discs, $59.99). Based on presidential assassin John Baron. Most of versions, with extras including audio com- Georges Simenon’s novels the film takes place in a suburban house mentary by film historian Frank Thompson, featuring famous sleuth overlooking a train station in the normally an interview with Lugosi, and a stills gallery. Inspector Jules Maigret, this quiet American town of Suddenly, where the Recommended. (S. Axmaker) 12-episode 1992-93 series president is scheduled to make a stopover. from England’s Granada The ensuing story is more about tension World Without End Television stars Sir . and psychological sparring than action as HHH Baron and his confederates take a family Sony, 2 discs, 389 min., not Rocko’s Modern Life: hostage, along with wounded Sheriff Tod rated, DVD: $65.99, Blu-ray: The Complete Series Shaw (Sterling Hayden), who uses psychology $75.99 (Shout! Factory, DVD: 8 in a desperate attempt to distract and engage Technically a sequel to discs, $29.99). Compiling all Baron. Sinatra turns out to be very good at The Pillars of the Earth, this 52 episodes of the four-sea- playing a cold-blooded psycho under a cool made-for-cable miniseries son 1993-1996 Nickelode- façade of easy banter and amoral philosophy. (once again based on a Ken Follett novel) takes on-aired animated series, Richard Sale’s script, meanwhile, hammers place in the same town of Kingsbridge some this collection showcasing out a message of vigilance and military might 150 years later—in the mid-1300s at the start the escapades of the titular Australian wal- in the face of threats against democracy, of the Hundred Years’ War—with a whole new laby and his buddies features the voices of making Suddenly very much a piece of Cold cast of characters. Top billing goes to Cynthia Carlos Alazraqui and Tom “SpongeBob” War propaganda. Directed by Lewis Allen, the Nixon as Petranilla, a ferociously ambitious Kenny. Extras include a “Wacky Delly” 2012 film became something of a cult item when it mother bent on furthering the ascent of her script-read and Q&A with creator Joe Mur- was revealed that Lee Harvey Oswald watched son, Godwyn (Rupert Evans)—a sanctimo- ray and the cast, character shorts, and the it a few days before assassinating President nious, sexually repressed friar—through the original pilot. John F. Kennedy (Sinatra subsequently had it religious hierarchy. Ben Chaplin costars as pulled from circulation). Although Suddenly Sir Thomas Langley, a soldier with a past sports some blemishes (and one brief moment shrouded in mystery who trades his sword Online of severe damage), the film is well-mastered, for a life of service in the church. But this is Visit Video Librarian Online (www. overall, from a sharp and vivid print. Blu-ray really more of an ensemble piece, and con- videolibrarian.com) for more reviews extras include two new audio commentaries tributing admirably to the effort are Charlotte during March and April, including: Angry (one by Frank Sinatra Jr.; the other by film his- Riley as Caris, a healer framed for murder Boys, Following, The Goode Family: The torian Dr. Drew Casper), Francis Thompson’s and tried as a witch who escapes hanging by Complete Series, House of Lies: The First impressionistic 1957 short “N.Y., N.Y.,” and joining the cloister; Nora von Waldstätten as Season, The House That Dripped Blood, Red an image gallery. A strong optional purchase. Gwenda, a peasant who stands up to injustice; Dwarf X, and much more! (S. Axmaker) and Miranda Richardson as Mother Cecilia,

MARCH/APRIL 2013 41 VIDEO LIBRARIAN Video Reviews

rapidly grows into a hulking monster. Series Critter Sitter & Lulu’s Magic Wand Ordering information for the titles reviewed in creator Ben Bocquelet and director Mic HHH Graves have invented a hybrid universe of (2012) 27 min. DVD: $69.95 (study guide this section can be found in the “Distributor the mundane and the freakish—including Addresses” listings at the back of the magazine. included). Nutmeg Media. PPR. ISBN: 1-933938- talking cacti, dinosaurs, a monkey teacher, 89 -7. and a doughnut cop. Featuring fast and Author and illustrator Chuck Richards HHHH= Excellent funny dialogue, and wonderfully inspired is spotlighted in this two-fer collection of characters, this is highly recommended. iconographic-animated adaptations, both HHH= Good Aud: P. (T. Keogh) narrated by Mike Pongracz. First up is 2008’s HH= Fair Chowder HHH Critter Sitter, which follows young Henry—the H= Poor titular animal wrangler—one day when he (2012) 12 min. DVD: $49.95 (study guide takes on the Mahoney family’s menagerie, PPR = Public Performance Rights included). Nutmeg Media. PPR. ISBN: 1-933938- 91-9. including a dog, cat, constrictor, goldfish, cockatiel, tree frog, goldfish, and crickets. DD = Digital Download Narrated by Dave Calabrese, this icono- Mischievous canine Slobberchops causes a Aud = Audience graphic-animated adaptation of Peter Brown’s acrylic-and-pencil 2006 picture domino effect of havoc, getting out of the K = Preschool-Kindergarten book revolves around the titular adorable laundry room and tracking blue detergent, bulldog. Chowder is not like the other knocking over boa Slinky’s aquarium, and E = Elementary (grades 1-3) (who think he’s weird), but owners Madge digging holes near the creepy neighbor’s house on the hill. Scared of animal neglect I = Intermediate (grades 4-6) and Bernie Wubbington embrace their toilet-trained fur-kid’s quirks—including charges, Henry struggles to bring things un- J = Jr. High (grades 7-8) being carried in a Snuggli, wearing sun- der control by the time the family returns. In 2012’s Lulu’s Magic Wand, the main char- H = High School (grades 9-12) glasses and headphones, and browsing the computer. One day, Chowder spies through acter is a pigtailed toddler, whose trip to an C = Colleges & Universities his Stellarscope a new billboard for a local amusement park with her family turns into an assortment of mishaps when a wizard’s P = Public Libraries grocery store advertising a “Critter Cor- ral,” where he thinks he might find friends magic wand carnival prize falls into the more like himself. Gently suggesting that wrong hands. Backed by colorful detailed the Wubbingtons make a food run (by visuals and apt sound effects, extras include eating them out of supplies), Chowder a “Sharing My Story” with Richards. Recom- CHILDREN’S meets the petting zoo Corral creatures, mended. Aud: P. (J. Williams-Wood) but instantly becomes unpopular when he accidentally sends the group’s kickball into Hi! Fly Guy HHH a tree. Luckily, while on a bathroom break, (2012) 7 min. DVD: $59.95 (study guide included). plucky Chowder comes up with an idea to . PPR. Closed captioned. The Amazing World of Gumball: The ISBN: 0-545-47807-3. HHH get things back on track. Also featuring a Mystery 1/2 “Sharing My Story” segment with Brown, Animated by , this adaptation (2012) 132 min. DVD: $14.98. Warner Home Video (avail. from most distributors). ISBN: 978-1- this cute tale is easily recommended. Aud: of author and illustrator Tedd Arnold’s ALA 6222-4818-6. K, P. (J. Williams-Wood) Notable and Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor This collection of award-winning epi- sodes from ’s hit series The Amazing World of Gumball is as hilarious as it Families of Italy HHH is artistically clever and unique. Combining (2012) 30 min. DVD: $29.95 (teacher’s guide included). Master 2D and 3D animation with cheesy-look- Communications. PPR. Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-1-60480-155-2. ing, live-action settings, Gumball finds its This latest title in the Families of the World cultural series is titular hero—a schoolboy with a penchant best watched after lunch, as both sets of relatives of the two for misadventures—getting into all kinds Italian young people featured here work in the food business. of scrapes. In “The Mystery,” Gumball First, viewers are introduced to 14-year-old Veronica, who lives attempts to deduce how Principal Brown on a picaresque rural sheep farm with her siblings and parents. ended up hairless, wrapped in toilet paper, Veronica’s parents milk sheep and make cheese (viewers get and shoved into a locker. Exploring theories an in-depth look at the process); afterwards, the teen goes to a while trying to determine the identity of store to sell the product and later helps layer a tiramisu dessert. the perpetrator, Gumball stumbles in his The rest of Veronica’s time is spent in activities not too different from what you logic until the unexpected truth emerges. might find in the U.S. (she eats Cocoa Puffs, helps dress her little sister, and surfs In “The Responsible,” Gumball and his Facebook), but the family does enjoy a visit to a holiday light display in Solerno, brother Darwin become babysitters for and looks at Greco-Roman carvings in Paestum and the ruins of Pompeii. Living their little sister, only to make a mess of in the city of Olevano sul Tusciano, 10-year-old Luigi’s home is attached to the everything. “The Car” finds the siblings family business: an olive oil factory. Mom takes Luigi (whose broken ankle leads to doing chores for their cranky neighbor, a mention of Italy’s great free healthcare) to his fourth grade class, before heading but destroying his car—or at least they as- home for harvesting and working the oil press. We also see the family at the large sume they did. In “The Spoon,” Gumball midday meal (including broccoli rabé, cheese pie, and homemade wine), and take and Darwin go to a gas station with $20 in a look around the farm to see the various fruits being grown. Luigi also attends search of a birthday present and are duped a musical group dress rehearsal and visits the family tomb on Day of the Dead. into helping a thief. If there’s a masterpiece Jam-packed with small details about daily life, this addition to the popular series in this set, it’s “The Microwave,” in which is recommended. Aud: P. (J. Williams-Wood) a jar full of gross stuff comes to life and

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 42 MARCH/APRIL 2013 2005 picture book features music by Jack kid-kitsch Power Rangers continue on in sending infernal invaders out to make the Sundrud and Rusty Young, and exuberant this iteration that finds grotesque monsters human world suffer, although the formula narration by MacLeod Andrews. A fly with called Nighlok being fought by the teen is fairly standard: namely, a guest Nighlok bulging eyes is in search of a smelly, slimy descendants of elite mystic samurai war- with weird powers (gluing people together; snack when he is captured by a boy equipped riors. Despite the samurai angle, most of duplicating itself; causing others to eat with a net, hook, and cage: tools needed to the multi-ethnic kids playing Rangers are uncontrollably) temporarily stymies the snag a creature to enter in an upcoming pet decidedly non-Asian, assembling in each Power Rangers, until they fight back with show. Although initially angry, the fly comes ritualistic episode to battle a particularly “BullZord” or “LightZord” or some kind of to like the boy—young Buzz, who is surprised grotesque Nighlok. These fights are the ultimate weapon (which looks suspiciously that the insect “knows” his name. Wielding centerpieces in a loose storyline in which like it might be selling now at toy stores). a flyswatter, Buzz’s skeptical parents see the shipboard monster Master Xandred is (cont. on pg. 47) fly as more pest than pet, but they too are amazed that the bug recognizes their son’s name. After calling him Fly Guy, Buzz solidi- HHH1/2 fies the friendship with a hot dog treat for his Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site (2012) 9 min. DVD: $59.95 (study guide included). Weston Woods new pet, and the duo do their best to impress Studios. PPR. Closed captioned. ISBN: 0-545-50221-7. the skeptical contest judges with tricks in Authored by Sherri Duskey Rinker and illustrated by Tom hopes of winning a prize. Also featuring a Lichtenheld, this adaptation of the ALA Notable and New York read-along option and an interview with Times bestselling 2011 picture book is animated by Soup2Nuts. Arnold (who cites Dr. Seuss as an influence), Narrated by the burly-voiced Dion Graham—with music by Jon this 2013 ALA-ALSC Notable Children’s Carroll that nicely matches the action—the rhyming Goodnight, Video selection is recommended. Aud: K, P. Goodnight, Construction Site features a variety of tough machines (J. Williams-Wood) who work all day but relax afterwards amidst neat-looking sparkly sunsets and dusky evening shades. Sporting facial features, the Power Rangers Super Samurai: The big city equipment vehicles are showcased with vignettes that show the crane truck Complete Season HH1/2 swinging beams and being tucked in with a teddy bear, a whirling cement mixer (2012) 3 discs. 460 min. DVD: $29.98, Blu-ray: that takes a bath before bed, a snoring dump truck, a roaring bladed bulldozer, and $39.98. Lionsgate (avail. from most distributors). more—delivering the message that even hard workers need to turn off their engines Closed captioned. and get some rest. Also featuring read-along subtitles and an interview with Rinker, The seemingly indestructible, candy- this appealing bedtime story is highly recommended. Aud: K, P. (J. Williams-Wood) colored Japanese-American co-produced

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MARCH/APRIL 2013 43 VIDEO LIBRARIAN Knuffle Bunny Free: An Unexpected Diversion (Weston Woods, 13 min., ALA-ALSC Notable Videos 2013 DVD: $59.95). The final story in author and illustrator Mo Willems’ Knuff le ALA’s Association for Library Services animation with computer-generated im- Bunny trilogy, this adaptation of the to Children (ALSC) has selected its 2013 ages that resemble photographic stills to 2010 picture book features the voices of list of Notable Children’s Videos, which tell a “road” vignette about four sisters who Willems, wife Cher, and young daughter includes DVDs for children 14 years of age amuse themselves in the backseat of the Trixie, who embark on a visit to Oma and and younger. Unless otherwise noted, titles family car. (VL-11/12) Opa in Holland, where they suddenly are available from most distributors or the realize that the titular beloved toy is companies are listed in the “Distributor Bink & Gollie (Weston Woods, 14 missing. (VL-11/12) Addresses” on page 78. min., DVD: $59.95). Based on the 2010 ALA Notable picture book by Kate DiCa- The Other Side (Weston Woods, 8 min., 55 Socks (National Film Board of Cana- millo and Alison McGhee, this animated DVD: $59.95). Based on the 2001 water- da, 9 min., DVD: $129). Based on a poem by adaptation features the mainly black-and- color picture book by author Jacqueline Marie Jacobs, Oscar-winning filmmaker Co white illustrations of Tony Fucile in three Woodson and illustrator E.B. Lewis, this Hoedeman’s WWII-era-set animated short vignettes about friends Bink, who is a tiny iconographic-animated adaptation tells focuses on a group of women in occupied wild-haired exuberant blonde, and pris- the story of a young black girl named Holland who repurpose a beautiful bed- sier, taller, and more well-kempt brunette Clover, who—despite being cautioned not spread so they can knit socks to trade for Gollie. (VL-9/12) to climb a fence dividing their land from food. (See upcoming review in VL-5/13) white neighbors—ultimately makes a new Edwina: The Dinosaur Who Didn’t friend. (VL-11/12) Anna, and the Condors (Green Know She Was Extinct (Weston Woods, Planet Films, 20 min., DVD: K-12 schools & 7 min., DVD: $59.95). Adapted from the Scaredy Squirrel Makes a Friend public libraries: $49; colleges & universities: 2006 picture book by prolific children’s (Weston Woods, 12 min., DVD: $59.95). $89). Winner of the 2013 Andrew Carnegie author and illustrator Mo Willems, this This adaptation of Mélanie Watt’s 2007 Medal for Excellence in Children’s Video, animated short—narrated by Willems’ picture book features the often-anxious director Katja Torneman’s live- wife, Cher—follows a dino heroine who titular rodent who is lonely and busily explores the story of titular sisters Anna is loved by everyone in town…except for stretching his overactive imagination in and Emma Parish, who along with their a crotchety young student who is irritated the search for the perfect pal. parents (Chris, the director of the Condor that Edwina doesn’t seem to realize that Project for the Peregrine Fund at Vermillion her species is extinct. (VL-1/13) Show Way (Weston Woods, 15 min., Cliffs, and Ellen, a leader for Jane Goodall’s DVD: $59.95). Featuring illustrations by Roots and Shoots organization) join the Hi! Fly Guy (Weston Woods, 7 min., Hudson Talbott, author Jacqueline Wood- effort to reintroduce California condors DVD: $59.95). Animated by Soup2Nuts, this son narrates this adaptation of her 2005 back into the wild. (See upcoming review adaptation of author and illustrator Tedd Newbery Honor Medal picture book, in VL-5/13) Arnold’s ALA Notable and Theodor Seuss which tells the story of several genera- Geisel Honor 2005 picture book centers on tions of quilters from the days of slavery Are YOU a Bully? Test (Human Relations a boy name Buzz, who needs a creature in to contemporary times. (See upcoming Media, 23 min., DVD: $149.95). Also includ- order to enter an upcoming pet show, and review in VL-5/13) ing a digital resource book for teachers and is excited when a fly “knows” his name. student handouts, this live-action produc- (See review on page 42) A Sick Day for Amos McGee (Weston tion challenges students to examine their Woods, 10 min., DVD: $59.95). A col- own possible bullying behaviors, while also Kali the Little Vampire (National Film laboration between author Philip C. Stead featuring stories from teens who have been Board of Canada, 10 min., DVD: $89). Nar- and his wife, illustrator Erin E. Stead, this on both sides of harassment. rated by Oscar-winner Christopher Plum- animated adaptation of the 2010 Caldecott mer, this animated tale from filmmaker Medal-winning and ALA Notable book Big Drive (National Film Board of Regina Pessoa revolves around a young focuses on senior citizen zookeeper Amos Canada, 9 min., DVD: $129). Anita Lebeau’s vampire who eventually makes peace with McGee, whose morning routine with his short juxtaposes old-style, hand-drawn his shadowy existence. animal friends is altered when he comes

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 44 MARCH/APRIL 2013 NOTABLE VIDEOS FROM THE NATIONAL FILM BOARD OF CANADA

Big Drive Squeezed into the back of the family 2013 Notable Children’s Video car, four restless siblings find magic in a road trip across the prairies. This exuberant animated film beautifully cap- D TIME O tures the bond between sisters and the ITE FF M ER LI power of the imagination.

$89

Kali the Little Vampire Viewers will be alternately terrified and 2013 Notable Children’s Video deeply moved by the plight of a little vampire who is isolated and lonely but willing to risk life and limb to save D TIME O a potential companion. Told in stark ITE FF M ER LI black, white and red, this animated $89 short will linger long in the memory.

55 Socks During World War II, in the dark “winter 2013 Notable Children’s Video of hunger” in Holland, a group of women and a girl unravel a beautiful bedspread to make socks that can be bartered for D TIME O food. Based on a poem by Marie Jacobs, ITE FF M ER LI this lyrical animated film leaves viewers

$89 with hope for a brighter future.

How Does It Feel “Presents an alternative view of what 2013 Notable Video for Adults it means to have a disability and illumi- nates the power of therapy through music and performance. An inspirational and D TIME O educational documentary for all audiences.” ITE FF M ER LI – Library Journal

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down with the sniffles and must stay in animated adaptation of the 2007 picture bed. (VL-9/12) book by author Angela Johnson and illustrator Loren Long. (See upcoming Sky Color (Weston Woods, 7 min., review in VL-5/13) DVD: $59.95). Author and illustrator Peter H. Reynolds’ 2012 picture book was 2013 Notable Children’s Videos Committee: adapted into this animated program that Chair, Maeve Visser Knoth, San Mateo County finds young art aficionado Marisol search- Library, CA; Marilyn Ackerman, Brooklyn ing for inspiration for a school library Public Library, NY; Alan Bern, Berkeley mural project. (See upcoming review in Public Library, CA; Liz Deskins, Hilliard City VL-5/13) School District, OH; Nancy A. Eames, Toledo Lucas County Public Library, OH; Susan Dove Lempke, Niles Public Library, IL; Gwen M. Wind Flyers (Nutmeg Media, 7 min., Taylor, Lewis-Clark State College, Lewiston, NAPPA Gold Award Winner! DVD: $49.95). A young boy describes ID; Emily Ann Tichenor, Tulsa City-County Worlds Together series takes you to his great-great-uncle’s life and times as Library, OK; and Rachel Wood, Arlington countries that are fascinating yet not on a Tuskegee Airman in this iconographic- Public Library, VA. the top of the list of usual travel destina- tions. Learn about the culture, history, food, geography and people. Closed- captioned. Free Teacher’s Guide. 25 min. each Recommended for all ages. $29.95 each V3202 Ethiopia 978-1-60480-106-4 V3203 East Africa 978-1-60480-107-1 V3201 West Africa 978-1-60480-105-7 Families of the World New!

“Recommended.” BL • SLJ • VL • LJ www.familiesoftheworld.com

V1876 Germany 978-1-60480-113-2 V1877 Italy 978-1-60480-155-2 $29.95 each • V1877S Set of 28 $838.60 FREE Families of the World by Kesa Kivel Families of Afghanistan Families of Japan Families of Australia Families of Kenya Grades 5–10 Families of Brazil Families of Korea Families of Canada Families of Mexico Families of China More Families of Mexico Families of Costa Rica Families of Panama Families of Egypt Families of “Full of inspiring examples of resistance and Families of France Families of Puerto Rico Families of Germany Families of Russia informative historical context, this film is a Families of Ghana Families of Sweden must-see for all students of U.S. history.” Families of Guatemala Families of Thailand —Ariel Luckey, Educator/Artist; Oakland, CA Families of India Families of UK Families of Italy Families of USA Families of Israel Families of Vietnam “…made me doublethink about what happened during that time period.” —Angela, Age 12; Los Angeles, CA master-comm.com .com/mastercommunications www.nevergiveupfilm.org Phone: 1-513-563-3100

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 46 MARCH/APRIL 2013 (cont. from pg. 43) and a silly storyline featuring news anchor The saving grace is that nothing is taken and Oscar the Grouch PSYCHOLOGY & SELF-HELP very seriously, the violence is basically acro- (suffering from a case of “Mine-itis”), batics, and puns spice up the rudimentary extras include the bonus program “Ready dialogue. When Antonio, the Gold Power for School.” Recommended. Aud: K, P. Care Farms of the Netherlands HHH Ranger, survives being changed into a dead (J. Williams-Wood) (2012) 30 min. DVD: $9.99: individuals; $174.99 fish (it’s a long story) and afterwards suffers w/PPR: institutions. Aspectfilms. the equivalent of Power Rangers Traumatic StarShine Workshop: Healthy Touch, David Heine’s documentary offers an over- Stress Syndrome, it’s almost—unintention- Good Boundaries, Safe Kids HHH1/2 view of an innovative program mixing agri- ally—a moment worthy of the satire Robot (2012) 30 min. DVD: $49.95 (teacher’s guide culture with social services care. Since 1988 Chicken. Compiling all 20 episodes aired included). Rising Star Studios. PPR. Closed the government of the Netherlands has been during 2012, extras include a music video, an captioned. ISBN: 978-1-9367-7057-1. financing a “care farm” program that enables exercise training segment, and footage from Featuring funky music and an upbeat individuals with developmental disabilities a licensing expo show. Sure to be popular, tone, this program approaches the subject and mental health concerns to be employed this is a strong optional purchase. Aud: P. of dealing with inappropriate touch in a on small farms. The rural environment, (C. Cassady) way that manages to communicate the with its fresh air and abundance of domesti- gravity of the issue without frightening cated animals, appears to have a therapeutic —Preschool is Cool: its young audience. Intended for second value, and the film shows how these farms Making Friends HHH to fifth graders, the 13-minute classroom encourage teamwork, build self-, and (2012) 114 min. DVD: $14.98. Warner Home presentation is led by a cheerful male-fe- develop skills that lead to both physical and Video (avail. from most distributors). male pair who begin by introducing the emotional strengthening in participants, In this latest Sesame Street entry, Elmo concept of good and bad touch to a group who range from young autistic children to helps Professor Grover get his preschool of elementary-age children seated at desks. elderly Alzheimer patients. Care farms also classroom ready for students. But Elmo is a Next, the group moves to a school gym, build a degree of agricultural self-reliance little apprehensive about interacting with where the hosts use costumes and games within the Netherlands, as farm owners are the other kids, which leads to various clips to explain the idea of the three circles paid with funds previously designated for and vignettes about friendship. Grammy- of comfort: strangers, helpers, and fam- daycare centers that essentially warehoused winning songstress Erykah Badu makes ily or close friends. In the final segment, people. The success of the Dutch example has friends with Elmo, Baby Bear, Rosita, and everyone heads outside to learn a “no, been noticed across Europe, inspiring other Zoe, even though they are initially skeptical go, tell” method that kids can use to deal countries on the continent to create their about her customary large headdress (she with uncomfortable situations. Three short own programs. However, the film notes that reminds them that she hasn’t been friends dramatizations of related scenarios provide the U.S. appears to be more focused on the with furry monsters—and a bear—before opportunities for students to practice the development of pharmaceutical strategies, either). Tully makes a new friend due to a concepts they have learned. The program which often lead to more problems than shared enjoyment of triangle toys, and Zoe also features a parent/teacher segment that solutions. Of course, there is also a significant and Rosita are back in a segment featuring gives adults tips for preparing children to cultural difference between the progressive Abby Cadabby that deals with being left out watch the program, while also providing Dutch government and its bureaucratic (and touches on feelings and making up). statistics on sexual abuse, and pointing American counterparts, so it seems unlikely Also featuring ’s PS22 Chorus out signs that indicate abuse. DVD extras that Washington will quickly move to em- singing “Somebody Come and Play,” Cookie include three PDF documents: a teacher’s brace this low-cost, farm-friendly program. Monster sharing his favorite treat, a “Trac- guide, tips for parents, and a sample par- Serving up an intriguing look at a promising tion Jackson” computer-animated segment ent letter/permission form for classroom approach to one aspect of healthcare, this is in which the wheelchair-bound youngster’s presentations. Highly recommended. Aud: recommended. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall) B-ball skills are grossly underestimated, E, I, P. (K. Cruver) Grieving the Sudden Death of a Loved One HHH LeapFrog—Scout & Friends: The Magnificent Museum of (2012) 60 min. DVD: $59.95. Paraclete Press. PPR. HHH ISBN: 978-1-61261-241-6. Opposite Words 1/2 Hosted by Dr. Earl A. Grollman, a rabbi, (2012) 35 min. DVD: $14.98. Lionsgate (avail. from most distributors). Closed captioned. counselor, and author of Talking About Death: A Dialogue Between Parent and Child; Dr. Heidi This latest program from the LeapFrog educational entertain- Horsley, a psychologist and executive direc- ment series starts off with green puppy Scout, blue cat Eli, and tor of the Open to Hope Foundation; and a…well, some sort of hyper rodent thing named Penny enjoying Gregory Floyd, leader of a Catholic covenant a thesaurus-worthy game of “in other words” (Scout is called community and author of A Grief Unveiled: “caring”; in other words, he’s “thoughtful,” and so on). Suddenly, One Father’s Journey Through the Death of a purple doggie Violet shows up with big news: the Magnificent Child, this program focuses on various stages Museum of Opposite Words is opening! But what are opposite words? The gang travels of bereavement after the sudden death of a in the magic car named Axle to the museum, where they discover the answer…along loved one. Divided into sections correspond- with flustered Mr. Polecat, who is hard-pressed to finish setting up exhibits for the ing to experiences ranging from shock and opening gala. Scout and the crew—along with the inept Beaver Brothers and robot as- denial to disorientation, the film—via many sistant Fritz—work together using trial and error to figure out what needs to go where. testimonials—describes grief as a “tsunami” Featuring songs and plenty of repetition to ensure retention for the target age group during which everything one believes is of 2-5, extras include sing-along and read-along segments. Highly recommended. under question: faith, trust, values, and [Note: also newly available at the same price is LeapFrog—Scout & Friends: Adventures hope. Amidst all-consuming pain, coping in Shapeville Park.] Aud: K, P. (J. Williams-Wood) seems nigh impossible, especially since no opportunity is left for closure with the lost

MARCH/APRIL 2013 47 VIDEO LIBRARIAN individual, no way for people to say the things they wanted to say. The consensus in in Her Eyes HHH this helpful program is that grief is a season (2012) 86 min. DVD: 24.95. PBS Video. with its own process and that letting it take hold of you is the best way to heal. Also Preacher Houda al-Habash, who founded one of the first Qur’an featuring a special section on working with schools for girls in Damascus, is at the center of this enlightening grieving children while being sensitive to documentary by co-directors Julia Meltzer and Laura Nix that their developmental needs, this is recom- follows Houda’s experiences as a religious educator, filming her mended. Aud: P. (T. Keogh) in her apartment, in the mosque, in conversation with secular journalists, and on a with her students. Since conservative Muslim clerics believe that women should pray at home, Houda’s Racing Thoughts (Ca Tourne Dans Ma actions appear to be somewhat radical, although she feels that Tete) HHH she’s simply fulfilling her destiny. Living with her husband and two children, Houda (2010) 73 min. DVD: $225. National Film Board believes that women should get an education and be able to work outside the home, of Canada. PPR. even as she herself still cooks, cleans, and wears the hijab. With both her family and Canadian filmmaker Louiselle Noël was pupils, Houda is equally patient, strict, and supportive. She started her school 30 years belatedly treated in her 40s for rapid-bipo- ago at the age of 17, and her 20-year-old daughter, Enas, has expressed an interest in lar disorder, which had plagued her since following a similar path. At the Al-Zahra Mosque, Houda, Enas, and other instructors childhood. Here, she channels her pain of help the girls to memorize, understand, and correctly pronounce every word in the decades of torment without medication into Qur’an. Houda also acts as a consultant for other schools and presides over a hijab an emotional series of interviews with kids ceremony, which completes the process for participating girls, since Houda sees it as a who are grappling with bipolar, schizoid-af- requirement from God, although some students opt out, due to personal preferences fective disorder, and other related childhood or the wishes of their parents. The film’s lyrical cinematography nicely captures the mental illnesses. While psychiatrists and beauty of the country and its people, providing a contrast to the heavier themes, and doctors are thanked in the credits, Noël steers an end note offers an update on Houda in the wake of Syria’s 2011 uprising. Recom- clear of lab-coated professionals, instead mended. [Note: this is also available on DVD for $99.95 w/PPR for public libraries, and turning to children and their families for $295 w/PPR for colleges and universities from The Cinema Guild (www.cinemaguild. testimonies regarding uncontrollable tan- com).] Aud: C, P. (K. Fennessy) trums, biting, self-mutilation, confinement in dungeon-like “quiet rooms,” and pleas for assisted suicide. One dad seems to crystallize deceitful, offering an illusion of connection in his series—Sacred Fire: An Anthropology and the theme by faulting Canada’s universal that might only exist in the mind of the Spirituality of Sexuality (VL-3/11) and Dark healthcare establishment, arguing that the beholder. An avid Facebook user here talks Nights and Doubts in Our Lives: A Failure of bureaucracy emphasizes “education” but about the false sense of community she felt Faith—Or Imagination? (VL-3/12)—The Incar- delays diagnosis and treatment with medi- as a participant, followed by the relief she nation is very simply produced, with Rolheiser cation because of timidity and stigma about experienced when giving it up cold turkey, standing at a podium to deliver the lectures dosing juveniles with psychotropics (the although she adds that she won’t necessarily (backed only by superimposed pictures of free-market U.S. medical system is better, he leave it behind forever—a conflicted view- quoted writers). Rolheiser is an amiable, declares)—although potential life-threaten- point that may sum up how many people knowledgeable, and articulate theologian, ing side effects of these drugs are mentioned feel about social networking. Other forms who analyzes the meaning of Christian in passing. Presented with both English and of media are also considered, including TV community in terms comprehensible to the French versions, Racing Thoughts will be use- shows and sports. As a faith-based program, average layperson. His main subject also leads ful for families, schools, and vested viewers one clear point made here concerns how “me- him into a discussion of other issues, includ- on both sides of the border struggling with dia addiction” distracts people from following ing how prayer and reconciliation should be issues related to mental illness. DVD extras God (an argument perhaps as old as media understood within the communal context. include interviews with the director and itself—excepting the Gutenberg Bible and Recommended. [Note: Ron Rolheiser’s Keeping Dr. Stan Kutcher. Recommended. Aud: C, P. other religious texts). The irony of using video Incarnate: The Paschal Mystery is also newly (C. Cassady) to make a case against media is not lost on available.] Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek) the viewer; in fact, it only enriches the debate that is sure to be sparked by this powerful Re-Emerging: The Jews of Nigeria RELIGION & PHILOSOPHY and timely (if also a little long) documentary. HHH1/2 Recommended. Aud: P. (C. Block) (2012) 90 min. DVD: $18: individuals; $295 w/ PPR: institutions. Re-Emerging Films. Captivated: Finding Freedom in a Media The Incarnation: Keeping God in the Jeff L. Lieberman’s documentary travels to Captive Culture HHH Flesh HHH southeast Nigeria to visit a somewhat contro- (2011) 107 min. DVD: $19.95. Media Talk 101 (2012) 110 min. DVD: $19.99. Oblate Media versial pocket of the Jewish diaspora. Within (dist. by Vision Video). (dist. by Videos With Values). PPR. ISBN: 978- Nigeria’s Igboland region is a community Video screens are a ubiquitous feature 193214282-1. that has embraced Judaism, to the point of of modern society. What does that mean Father Ron Rolheiser, a Catholic priest who having Hebrew-language synagogue services. for humanity today? This Christian-based is president of the Oblate School of Theology The Igbo group profiled here insists that their documentary makes a handful of compelling in San Antonio, as well as a columnist and society is a remnant of ancient Israel, citing nondenominational points, while exploring author, continues his series of retreat-style lec- a number of social and cultural similarities topics such as the contemporary condition tures with this two-part presentation, based between Igbo customs and Old Testament of being wired—sometimes 24/7—to the primarily on Scripture and such authoritative protocol. One charismatic young leader is Internet and other types of media. Presenting figures as Augustine, concerning the meaning eager to expand his religious education and interviews with media users, pastors, educa- and implications of the doctrine asserting become an ordained rabbi. While Igbo com- tors, doctors, and others, filmmakers Phillip that the faithful constitute the so-called munity members are enthusiastic in their Telfer and Colin Gunn argue that media is Mystical Body of Christ. Like earlier releases commitment to Judaism, their euphoria is

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 48 MARCH/APRIL 2013 not shared elsewhere: they are viewed with beaches to pray for the people. Before long, news coverage has shone a spotlight on the hostility by Nigeria’s Christian and Muslim Smith was teaching the bible to “hippies” brutal treatment that African warlord Joseph populations, and the Israeli government has at the water’s edge—launching the “Jesus Kony’s so-called Lord’s Resistance Army has been conspicuously unfriendly toward their Movement” phenomenon that continues to infl icted on the children of northern Uganda claims of brotherhood. In addition to the this day (also known as the “Calvary Chapel for years, turning them into brainwashed religious examination, the fi lm also offers Movement,” centered in Costa Mesa, CA). soldiers or sex slaves, and often killing a somber detour into the tragic chapters of Teaching at the beach, Smith would draw their families. Director Bil Yoelin’s After Igbo history, including the deportation of crowds that continued to grow. In an era of Kony sketches one modest effort to address large numbers of men and women during cultural crisis that included the “generation the psychological trauma suffered by those the peak of the transatlantic slave trade, and gap,” Smith distinguished himself by ac- who have escaped the tyrant’s control. The the brutal carnage that befell the region in cepting everyone—looking past long hair American-developed program Voices in Har- the 1960s Biafran confl ict. Ultimately, this to see the value in each individual. Directed mony—which employs theater to help at-risk documentary provides a remarkable view by Jurgen and Stacey Peretzki, What God children express their feelings—takes its con- of a dedicated population’s zeal to pursue Hath Wrought features many interviews with cept to a Ugandan refugee center, recruiting religious freedom; it’s hard not to be caught folks who laud Smith, but the best one is 14 teens to construct scenes and monologues up in the sincerity and joy that these pious an extended interview with Smith himself. based on their experiences, which they then believers bring to their faith. Highly recom- Smith—a surfer (and perhaps the original perform, along with musical numbers, for the mended. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall) “soul surfer”)—felt both a call to preach and camp residents. Much of the documentary is a call to the water. Here, he comes across as devoted to the process of writing and rehears- a genuine, self-effacing man who appears ★★★1/2 ing, culminating in excerpts from the fi nal What God Hath Wrought to have the heart of a true servant. Highly (2012) 105 min. DVD: $19.99. Screen Savers performance, which provides both entertain- recommended. Aud: P. (C. Block) Entertainment (dist. by Vision Video). ment and instruction for the audience while The well-known line from Elton John’s helping the youngsters confront their own “Tiny Dancer” (“Jesus freaks—out in the SOCIAL & POLITICAL ISSUES demons. One can’t help but be moved by the street—handing tickets out for God”) may resilience and perseverance of the orphans, as have been infl uenced by California pastor well as by the bond that grows between the Chuck Smith, whose mission to connect a After Kony: Staging Hope ★★★ kids and the visitors who are determined to generation of young people to God changed (2011) 99 min. In English & Luo w/English help. DVD extras include a study guide on the very face of Christian evangelism. Smith, subtitles. DVD: $24.95. First Run Features (avail. Uganda and the project, a photo gallery, and along with his wife Kay, began their minis- from most distributors). text bios on the fi lmmaking crew. Recom- try by simply going to southern California Activist reporting combined with ordinary mended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)

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MARCH/APRIL 2013 49 VIDEO LIBRARIAN The Atomic States of America HHH between Noel and Reynaldo, Kenny doesn’t life” (aka garden-party vistas and yachting). (2012) 90 min. DVD: $39.95: public libraries; intercede. Kenny starts to spend more time Conservatives here gleefully note the clas- $89 w/PPR: high schools; $295 w/PPR: colleges & with Reynaldo’s loud group than with his sic “limousine liberalism” (although Mitt universities. The Video Project. Closed captioned. quiet friend (Kenny’s new girlfriend is also Romney is paraphrased here, calling wind Apparently, The Simpsons gag stereotype of part of Reynaldo’s inner circle). As Reynaldo’s farms “ugly” and suitable only for poorer nuclear power plants as leaky accident vectors bullying increases, Noel becomes more with- areas). Meanwhile, Greenpeace and other does not stray far from the truth—and that’s drawn, even from Kenny. Inner monologues eco-activists fight for Gordon’s “Cape Wind” not all that funny. Documentary filmmakers from the characters serve to explain their scheme. Soon fishermen, labor unions, Native Don Argott and Sheena M. Joyce charge that feelings and actions, and while Reynaldo may Americans, the Audubon Society, journal- nuclear fission benefited from deceptive PR be harder for viewers to relate to, his strained ists, singers, engineers, global-warming and corporate-lobbyist makeovers during relationship with his father provides some alarmists, Appalachians, people dressed as Obama’s first administration (when the explanation for his controlling behavior. animals or sheiks—seemingly every pressure first nuclear power plant in 32 years was ap- Although the film ends on an inconclusive group except GLAAD and the New Black proved), being newly christened as “green” note, director Deirdre Fishel did so intention- Panthers—enter the fray, not necessarily energy, despite at Three Mile Island, ally in order to spur discussion about what taking the positions you would expect. And, , and Fukushima, Japan. This the three boys could or should do next. more than once, opinion-leaders are secretly film was inspired by the bookWelcome to Featuring two versions of the film—one with tainted by corporate ties and lobbying. An Shirley: Memoir From an Atomic Town by Kelly mild profanity, the other without—extras enjoyable (and depressing) look at local de- McMasters, who describes growing up in a include a study guide. Recommended. Aud: mocracy turning into a special-interest circus, Long Island ringed by nuke plants, in which J, P. (K. Fennessy) Cape Spin is highly recommended. Aud: C, P. cancer was such a frequent occurrence that (C. Cassady) the young McMasters thought it was nor- Cape Spin! An American Power Struggle mal—until she attended college out of town. HHH1/2 Doomsday Preppers: Season 1 HHH At abandoned Three Mile Island, sardonic (2012) 86 min. DVD: $89: high schools & public (2012) 3 discs. 495 min. DVD: $29.98. National Pennsylvania activist Ed Epstein recalls the libraries; $250: colleges & universities. The Video Geographic (avail. from most distributors). Closed days of panic and cover-ups during the 1979 Project. PPR. Closed captioned. captioned. ISBN: 978-1-4263-4428-2. reactor meltdown; today, he finds the site Late in Robbie Gemmel and John Kirby’s Worrying about the end of the world is not unguarded and poorly monitored. Longtime riotous feature, a rough cut of Cape Spin pre- only a state of mind; for some it’s a full-time anti-nuclear campaigner Dr. Helen Caldicott views, and someone complains that a serious occupation. This National Geographic series talks about various levels and varieties of issue is made to look like a carnival. Well... looks at world-doomsday “preppers,” ordi- radiation and the pernicious poison of spent duhhhh! It seemed to be a bright, “green” nary Americans and Canadians who try to plutonium. Actor minces no idea in 2001 when energy tycoon Jim Gordon stay alert and ready in order to survive under words (and drops the F-bomb) in criticizing proposed a vast wind-power array in the Cape the radar, making provisions to support their Brookhaven Lab’s leaking lethal tritium into Cod shallows near Nantucket Sound, where family or community for as long as neces- residential well water. Only former NJ gover- the influential Kennedy Democrat dynasty sary. Their concerns are legion, including nor Christine Todd Whitman briefly defends are champions of the environment. But the polar shifts, killer earthquakes, solar flares, nuclear energy in this otherwise one-sided idea instead stirred vigorous opposition, food shortages, hyperinflation, and even the and negative indictment. Although it never most visibly from those selfsame Kennedys long dormant Yellowstone “super volcano.” even bothers to suggest alternatives, The and other super-rich, irate that the ocean Popular activities include stockpiling food, Atomic States of America powerfully warns of wind towers would spoil their “quality of running practice evacuation drills, and the dangers of a nuclear renaissance. Featur- ing both the full-length film and a 70-minute abridged version, this is recommended. Aud: Detropia HHH1/2 C, P. (C. Cassady) (2011) 91 min. DVD: $29.95. Docurama (avail. from most distributors). ISBN: 1-4229-2289-8. The Boy Game HHH In Detropia, filmmakers Heidi Ewing and Rachel Grady depict (2012) 16 min. DVD: $75: public libraries; $125: the desuetude and decay of the once-mighty Motor City after high schools; $225: colleges & universities. New much of its famed car-manufacturing and steel-assembly works Day Films. PPR. have closed, moved overseas, or been severely cut back. At the This documentary-style dramatic short time of filming in 2010, one family was fleeing Detroit every 20 aimed at preteens revolves around an eighth minutes, and a broke city hall was embarking on a municipal grader looking to fit in at a new school. At first scheme of “downsizing”—i.e., ending services in depopulated Kenny (Kenny Sosnowski) hangs out with neighborhoods (where vacant land may be repurposed as urban a soft-spoken cartoonist he knew in grade farm pastures one day—an idealistic scheme that Detroiters greet with scorn and school, Noel (Alsharik Sejour). But when Noel skepticism). Taking leisurely vérité ride-alongs amongst the deserted mills and empty has to leave town for an unspecified period of streets, the film follows a United Auto Workers local president who is breaking the news time due to a death in the family, Kenny lacks to factory workers of management’s latest lowball-salary offers; a former teacher open- a social life, until he hits it off with ninth ing an R&B music club; and amateur “scrappers” pulling down vacant buildings with grader Reynaldo (Reynaldo Piniella). Soon, their rudimentary gear for recyclable metal. The sense of loss, desperation, and poverty Kenny becomes part of Reynaldo’s insulting lightens a bit near the end, when the Obama administration bails out General Motors, crowd of skateboarders, who share a predi- and artsy young people start settling in the ghost-quiet city, but given the terrible lection for macho bluster and homophobic malaise depicted here, it remains a little questionable as to exactly how “performance slurs. When Noel returns, Reynaldo makes art” and the Detroit Opera will reverse the town’s failing fortunes. DVD extras include fun of him, leaving Kenny in an awkward deleted and extended scenes. Highly recommended. [Note: this is also available with position, since he wants to maintain both public performance rights for $295 from Bullfrog Films, www.bullfrogfilms.com.] Aud: friendships, so he encourages Noel to stand C, P. (C. Cassady) up for himself, but when things grow tense

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 50 MARCH/APRIL 2013 dubs the “Man of Today” (Paul Ahmarani), Inocente HHHH a cynical libertarian who harbors no par- (2012) 40 min. DVD: $99.95: public libraries; $295: colleges & universities. ticular hope or vision for the future, besides The Cinema Guild. PPR. ISBN: 0-7815-1414-2. his own private pursuit of an ethical life. At A 2012 Oscar-nominee, Inocente casts light on the plight of her insistence, the Man of Today embarks homeless and undocumented children in America through the on a fanciful worldwide quest to speak with story of the extraordinarily talented teenaged painter Inocente international great minds—architect Shigeru Izucar. At the time of filming Izucar was 15, and had lived with Ban, philosopher Alain de Botton, novelist her mother and three young brothers in a series of shelters and Rivka Galchen, painter Marlene Dumas, evo- temporary apartments—moving 30 times in nine years. Through lutionary biologist Richard Dawkins—and he the San Diego nonprofit program ARTS (A Reason To Survive), even enjoys a face-to-face encounter with a Izucar found an outlet for her talent, painting large canvases with chain-smoking, hologram-like Jean-Paul Sar- striking, brightly colored creatures, abstract figures, and landscapes. Husband-and-wife tre (edited in from La Vie Commence Demain filmmakers Sean Fine and Andrea Nix Fine follow the artist as she creates 30 new works footage). Although it is sometimes unclear for an ARTS exhibition, tracing her brush strokes with the camera while also showing what “aha!” moments actually bring about a the development of her creations from beginning to completion in fast-motion aerial change in attitude in the Man of Today, this views. In emotional sequences, we learn that Izucar once dissuaded her alcoholic mom playful intellectual mystery tour serves up a from committing suicide, and that an incident of domestic abuse led to her father’s charming and unconventional argument for deportation years earlier—a “mistake” for which she still blames herself. The story is optimism. Presented in both the English and told primarily through Inocente’s words, in voiceovers, and as she faces the camera, her French versions, this is highly recommended. face painted (a daily habit) with abstract designs, talking easily about her family, her art, Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady) and her “silly dreams.” Presenting a beautiful and inspiring introduction to an amaz- ing young artist, this 2013 ALA-VRT Notable Video selection is highly recommended. Grrrl Love and Revolution: Riot Grrrl NYC Editor’s Choice. Aud: H, C, P. (M. Puffer-Rothenberg) HH1/2 (2011) 42 min. DVD: $89: public libraries; $250: colleges & universities. Women Make Movies. learning the art of foraging and setting up tive, but realized he would have more career PPR. of food, fuel, and medicine caches around leverage in his state as a Democrat—thus, Director Abby Moser compiles new and the countryside. Of course, gun training he happily switched sides and worked on archival material for this sympathetic if some- is a necessity, as most of the subjects fully Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign. what unstructured profile of the New York expect unprepared “marauders” to come Virginian Ben Trump keeps his conserva- chapter of the , WA-bred riot grrrl after their supplies. Making one’s house tive ideals in place, but finds that most of movement. Captions identify most perform- secure against incoming gunfire can also be his peers abhor his brand of politics. And ers, and the camerawork—capturing inter- a plus. Other topics include using alcoholic Pennsylvanian Nick Troiano drifts from his views and meetings from the 1990s—sports beverages to barter for food, living on the Republican beliefs to an Independent realm a non-professional look that seems to be in road using a big rig, underground bunkers, that grows fairly shaky in a divided partisan keeping with the D.I.Y. spirit of the genre. having a well-stocked “bug out” bag, and environment. To its credit, the film offers a Sara Marcus (Girls to the Front: The True Story working out a backup plan if the first course rare glimpse into the relatively little-known of the Riot Grrrl Revolution) explains that riot of action fails. Each segment includes an world of political training camps for teenag- grrrl began as a response to the lack of female “expert” assessment of the family’s survival ers, where young people with presidential voices in punk, creating a space to speak plan, an update, and the odds of whether ambitions receive rigorous indoctrination about rape and sexual abuse in songs and the doomsday scenario may actually come into their party’s line. There is even a jovial fanzines. Marcus and other writers, including to pass. Anxiety in the wake of the 2008 appearance by Michael Dukakis, who all but Evelyn McDonnell (Mamarama: A Memoir of financial meltdown seems to be the key disappeared from the national spotlight after Sex, Kids and Rock ‘n’ Roll) and Gayle Wald event shaping most preppers’ worldview. his disastrous 1988 presidential candidacy. (who penned the essay Smells Like Teen Spirit: Some of the details here may seem humor- Unfortunately, however, the three young Riot Grrrls, Revolution, and Independent Rock), ous (blessing the gun room, a young woman men at the heart of the film quickly become note that commercialization set in when the stocking up on condoms, etc.), but as one tiresome, especially since their insatiable mainstream media took notice, leading to prepper says, we’re all “nine meals from hunger for engaging in the political process “girl power” acts such as the Spice Girls, who anarchy,” and the fear shown here seems comes across as self-aggrandizing monoma- had little relation to the movement’s guiding real. DVD extras include the bonus program nia rather than a sincere desire to improve the principles, such as self-distribution and free American Doomsday. Recommended. Aud: nation. Optional. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall) speech. Grrrl Love and Revolution makes a case P. (S. Rees) for riot grrrl as a necessary sociopolitical phe- The Future is Now! HHH1/2 nomenon—essentially an extension of the Follow the Leader HH1/2 (2010) 91 min. DVD: $195. National Film Board feminism of the 1960s and 1970s—but the (2012) 74 min. DVD: $179.95: public libraries of Canada. PPR. music sometimes works against the message & high schools; $395: colleges & universities. Gary Burns and Jim Brown’s sprightly in acts who prioritized self-expression over Changeworx (avail. from www.changeworx.com). Canadian quasi-documentary is among a any other considerations, with the exception PPR. handful of (precious few) brainy movies of top-tier outfits such as Bikini Kill, who Jonathan Goodman Levitt’s documentary (such as and Sophie’s World) that could write actual songs. A strong optional focuses on a trio of teenagers who share an invoke big ideas and lofty concepts within purchase. Aud: C, P. (K. Fennessy) obsession with politics. Shot over a three-year the framework of a scripted narrative that period that culminated with the 2008 presi- presents a series of dialogues and debates. In Half the Sky HHH dential election, Follow the Leader illustrates The Future is Now! (actually a remake/update (2012) 2 discs. 232 min. DVD: $29.95. Docurama how each of the three aggressively pursued of 1949’s little-remembered La Vie Commence (avail. from most distributors). ISBN: 1-4229- his political mania. Massachusetts-based D.J. Demain), a person-on-the-street TV inter- 2227-8. Beauregard is initially a staunch conserva- viewer (Liane Balaban) meets a subject she This two-part documentary—aired on

MARCH/APRIL 2013 51 VIDEO LIBRARIAN PBS’s Independent Lens—is based on the bestselling book Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women YERT: Your Environmental Road Trip HHH1/2 (2012) 113 min. DVD: $24.95. First Run Features (avail. from most Worldwide by married co-authors and distributors). New York Times reporters Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn, which focuses on In this fast-moving, highly informative, and entertaining disadvantaged women in the process of documentary, three eco-conscious friends—filmmakers Mark overcoming or combating adversity. Along Dixon, Ben Evans, and Julie Evans—decide to spend a year with representatives of aid organizations, traveling through all 50 states in the U.S. on a mission to the documentary incorporates comments find great examples of people and organizations combating from Hillary Clinton, Gloria Steinem, and climate change. YERT finds the committed but lighthearted George Clooney, who believes that “the ce- trio visiting Centralia, PA, where a coal mine has been burn- lebrity involvement may be able to amplify ing for decades (but is legally protected from commercial the story.” Kristof accompanies six actresses and environmentally hazardous exploitation); joining a street demonstration in to various countries: Eva Mendes (Sierra Concord, NH, for sustainable energy policies; and meeting with a Chicago official Leone), Meg Ryan (Cambodia), Gabrielle in charge of funding the city’s many “living roofs.” The latter—expansive rooftops Union (Vietnam), (Somaliland), where plants are grown to absorb carbon and keep building interiors cool—is one (Kenya), and America Ferrara of the film’s many impressive examples of creative and sensible local practices that (India). The film begins with Amie Kandeh, could be adapted globally. More exotic are energy-efficient mud huts in Wellfleet, of the International Rescue Committee, NE; and similarly smart “cave houses” made from rocks in Idaho. In Iowa, the trav- which provides relief to rape victims (most elers explore possibilities for extracting ethanol from grasses instead of corn, while fail to seek recourse, since the law isn’t on further experiments with perennial (as opposed to seasonal) crops in have their side, but 14-year-old Fulamatu decides important implications. A drought in Georgia, compromised coastal ecosystems to prosecute her assailant). Other profiled on the Gulf Coast, and the progressive handling of garbage in New Jersey are also subjects include Somaly Mam, who rescues covered. Throughout, the filmmakers walk their talk, keeping their own monthly girls from sex slavery; John Wood, who trash stored in a shoebox-size container. DVD extras include audio commentary, provides free education for female students; deleted scenes, and outtakes. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh) Edna Anan, who fights to reduce maternity mortality; Ingrid Munro, who helps women to start their own businesses through mi- his two-year term came up for re-election, Day of the Dead and related customs, with crofinancing; and Urmi Basu, who looks Cao found himself alienated from the the overall purpose of suggesting that after after the children of sex workers. While vindictive Republican money machine and a succession of invasions and occupations, the Hollywood stars are initially distract- backstabbed by the entrenched Louisiana the Sicilian self-identity has developed ing, these celebrities ultimately seem to Democratic apparatus. In the end, he sadly a dark, pessimistic side discernible in its be genuinely educated, concerned, and in- concludes, congressional party politics and culture and attitudes. Even in Turturro’s spired. DVD extras include extended scenes high-minded moral ideals don’t mix. Like own individual story, the shadow of death and interviews, and a featurette on taking Cao himself, this fascinating documentary briefly falls when he talks about his mother action. An informative, heartfelt look at has its feet in many camps: Asian and Asian- and tears up over her recent demise. All of women activists in the underdeveloped American studies, politics and civics, and this, along with the numerous allusions to world, this is recommended. Aud: C, P. Southern studies collections. Highly recom- literature and drama, speaks to the tragic (K. Fennessy) mended. Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady) element in Sicilian life that is highlighted by the title. While obviously not the aver- Mr. Cao Goes to Washington HHH1/2 Rehearsal for a Sicilian Tragedy HHH age travelogue, this is a curiously moving (2012) 72 min. DVD: $24.95: individuals; $95 w/ (2009) 77 min. DVD: $24.95. First Run Features film that many will find appealing. Recom- PPR: public libraries & high schools; $295 w/PPR: (avail. from most distributors). mended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek) colleges & universities. New Day Films. ISBN: 978- 1-57448-119-8. Actor takes viewers on a S. Leo Chiang’s bittersweet political journey to his ancestral homeland in this Somewhere Between HHH ride-along with a Washington rookie is impressionistic documentary that is part (2012) 88 min. DVD: $29.95. Docurama (avail. from most distributors). Closed captioned. a tale that has been told before (just read personal nostalgia trip but mostly an effort the title), but the main character here is an to portray the “soul” of the Sicilian people. Filmmaker Linda Goldstein Knowlton original. Joseph Cao, a Vietnamese refugee Co-written by Turturro and director Roman appears (briefly) here to give a personal mis- whose family settled in New Orleans, ran Paska, Rehearsal for a Sicilian Tragedy visits sion statement: namely, that as she has just for the House of Representatives on a sites associated with Turturro’s family, adopted a baby girl from China, this film Republican ticket—partially because the such as his grandmother’s house, and more will later serve as a message to her daughter Roman Catholic Cao was adamantly anti- general venues, such as a stroll through about her cross-cultural heritage. Somewhere abortion, but also because GOP donors Palermo’s outdoor market. And a particu- Between focuses on four Chinese-American supported him after an epic corruption larly jovial sequence follows the actor as adolescent girls who were among the 80,000 case brought down the incumbent in he’s welcomed into a convent whose nuns Chinese babies who have become members an environment traditionally owned by happily join him in song. But more footage of families in the United States since 1989. scandal-ridden Democrats. Consistent with is given over to interviews with local his- Over the course of its three-year-long his ideals to do right by his constituents torians and artists, declamations of poetry narrative arc, the documentary gradually (poverty-wracked districts still not recov- and dramatic scenes, and conversations becomes an exposé, revealing that while on ered from Hurricane Katrina), Cao made with master puppeteer Mimmo Cuticchio, paper these children were “orphans,” many history as the lone Republican supporting custodian of a tradition that Turturro wants of them came from intact peasant families, the Obama healthcare reform package... to learn about in preparation for a potential where females are discarded in the search until he turned against it because of fund- project. The film also features considerable for a male heir (while also complying with ing for pregnancy termination. By the time coverage of the islanders’ celebration of the Beijing’s one-child-per-household dictates).

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 52 MARCH/APRIL 2013 The adoptees shown here—assimilated in debilitating social upheaval of the 1960s affluent households from California to Ten- or the equally traumatic loss of jobs after TEEN ISSUES nessee—gravitate back towards China as the collapse of the automobile industry. they mature, to help out other abandoned Unlike other urban areas that successfully infants, and (in a remarkably million-to- reinvented themselves through gentrifica- one case) a teen reunites with her biological tion and innovative economic initiatives, Before You Hook Up: Dating Rights and parents. While this turn of events serves Detroit never found the formula to move Responsibilities HHH1/2 up an especially heartfelt emotional jolt, forward, although some efforts are be- (2013) 22 min. DVD: $149.95 (teacher’s guide the questions of racial identity and plural- ginning to pay off. Abandoned lots have included). Human Relations Media. PPR. Closed ism in America begin to recede into the been transformed into organic gardens, captioned. ISBN: 978-1-55548-572-6. background as the story shifts to interna- small businesses have provided financial “If you are respected, you feel valued,” one tional adoption and child-welfare drama. empowerment to enterprising individuals, interviewee notes in this brief but informa- Regardless, the quartet of “somewhere and educational programs are instilling tive program that explores the ins and outs between” heroines followed here will not tomorrow’s generation with lessons of self- of healthy dating relationships. Comprised soon be forgotten by viewers of this often worth and community pride. Larger prob- mainly of commentary by real teens com- powerful documentary. DVD extras include lems, however, continue to haunt Detroit, bined with expert opinions, Before You Hook interviews with adoption professionals, including a glut of foreclosed housing, Up offers solid guidance about what consti- and deleted and extended scenes. Recom- long-simmering distrust between African- tutes a good relationship, including respect- mended. Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady) American communities and the police, and ing boundaries, being treated as equals, ac- the absence of industrial opportunities to cepting people for who they are, and finding We Are Not Ghosts HHH1/2 fill the void left by the withdrawal of manu- a balance by sometimes agreeing to disagree. (2012) 52 min. DVD: $250. Moving Images (dist. facturers. While there’s plenty of blame to Noting that trust doesn’t happen overnight, by Bullfrog Films). PPR. Closed captioned. ISBN: go around, the interviewees here—teach- the program counsels viewers to be honest 1-93777-225-X. ers, entrepreneurs, community leaders, about feelings and needs, and to support each Mark Dworkin and Melissa Young’s and agricultural experts—are more focused other’s individuality and goals, which will provocative and invigorating documen- on harnessing positive energy and work- help build a strong bond. The program also tary focuses on private microeconomic ing toward a better future. Indeed, that looks at the negative aspects of bad relation- efforts made by residents to revitalize their can-do attitude makes We Are Not Ghosts ships, including control issues, manipulation, blighted neighborhoods in Detroit, a once- a powerful film that celebrates resiliency and the unhealthiness of fantasies like Romeo vibrant, diverse, hard-working city that and exudes hope. Highly recommended. and Juliet (a role-play vignette notes that Ro- never truly recovered its footing after the Aud: C, P. (P. Hall) meo likely didn’t know Juliet’s favorite color,

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MARCH/APRIL 2013 53 VIDEO LIBRARIAN or anything important other than that she Hearst would ironically become a victim), the on the effort to balance the constitutional was cute). Also offering advice on how to feeding frenzy came of age with the media rights of individuals with the security needs recognize warning signs (a “Brittny’s Story” circus surrounding O.J. Simpson’s murder of society at large—are described clearly and segment details an abusive situation), and get trial and Michael Jackson’s child molesting succinctly in this three-part series (also avail- help, this is highly recommended. Aud: J, H, charges. The modern celebrity trial—usually able separately). The first installment, Crime, P. ( J. Williams-Wood) marked by outsized media coverage and even- Law, and Enforcement, explains the legal classi- tual book deals—strikes many as wasteful and fication of crimes, the investigation of crimes, sleazy. Filmmaker Brian Malone’s documen- and the interrogation of suspects. The second, EDUCATION tary focuses on one contemporary instance, Evidence and Forensics, deals with the collec- the rape trial hearings of basketball superstar tion and categorization of evidence, with Bryant, noting that sex trials—boasting special attention given to forensic techniques World Peace and Other Fourth-Grade abundant speculation and salacious details— such as DNA analysis. The third title, Court, Achievements HHH are easy to cover and a perfect fit for the 24/7 Trials, and Sentencing, focuses specifically on (2012) 56 min. DVD: $150: public libraries; news cycle of cable television, as well as the the judicial process, covering how trials are $250: high schools, colleges & universities. Rosalia new, profit-driven world of network TV news. prepared and conducted, while also looking Films (dist. by The Martin Institute for Teaching Viewers see reporters (some hoping to make at the arrangements for plea bargains. The Excellence). PPR. their career reputations) hovering around a overall effect is of an illustrated introductory Fourth grade might seem a little young to Colorado courthouse, desperately hoping for textbook on the subject, with sober narration be studying Chinese general Sun Tzu’s an- a bit of news or to catch a glimpse of Bryant accompanied by observations from police cient text The Art of War, but innovative Char- as he enters or leaves the building. Some at officers, prosecutors, judges, and academics, lottesville, VA, educator John Hunter—son least retain their sense of humor in interviews as well as occasional dramatizations. Offer- of a schoolteacher—feels otherwise. Bored here, although it would be funnier if serious ing a clear and straightforward overview of and restless, Hunter dropped out of college a allegations were not involved, and other the subject, this series is a good fit for civics few times in order to travel throughout Asia, important news wasn’t being crowded out courses and pre-law students, while also serv- but found his calling when he discovered of air-time. After many weeks, a quiet, out- ing general audiences as a welcome corrective experimental education, the subject in which of-court settlement is reached, and the news to the simplistic portrayals often encountered he finally obtained his degree. Director Chris people and their disperse until the in movies and on television. Recommended. Farina follows Hunter’s fourth-grade class as next big scandal. While the subject is timely, Aud: H, C, P. (F. Swietek) students participate in the interactive World the documentary unfortunately doesn’t have Peace Game, a 28-year-old political-science much to say that is either new or instructive. exercise in which fictional countries must An optional purchase. Aud: P. (S. Rees) LANGUAGE ARTS learn to get along. For one day a week over the course of two months, student leaders Due Process: Understanding the U.S. conduct their business around a large game board that simulates the globe, where those Criminal Justice System HHH Worlds of English HHH1/2 who become prime ministers receive a dos- (2012) 3 discs. 94 min. DVD: $299.95. Films (2011) 3 discs. 80 min. DVD: $389.85. Films Media Group. PPR. Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-1- Media Group. PPR. Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-1- sier and choose two to three officers. Game 62102-908-3. 62102-176-6. scenarios mix new crises (such as water short- The workings of the American criminal Spread over three separate half-hour pro- ages) and ongoing skirmishes, while com- grams (also available separately), Worlds of plicating factors include religious practices, justice system—with a particular emphasis endangered species, and natural resources. Leaders can also reach out to external forces for assistance, including the United Nations Crimes Against the Environment HHH and the World Bank. The game ends when (2012) 22 min. DVD: $129.95. VEA (dist. by Films Media Group). PPR. the class has achieved world peace. While Closed captioned. the kids can get pretty excitable when it Offering a concise explanation of the prosecution of so-called comes to defending their turf, Hunter makes “green crimes,” Crimes Against the Environment begins with an sure that no one goes too far in either their explanation of two kinds of emerging law: statutes targeting words or actions. One student, a slight boy “primary” offenses (actual damage done directly to the environ- with a surprisingly mature voice, looks both ment) and those concerning “secondary” violations (harm done exhausted and exhilarated after a series of to people or property for the purpose of perpetuating activities battles here, summarily stating, “I think it’s that damage the environment—for example, French intelligence kind of weird to be living what Sun Tzu said.” sinking a Greenpeace ship in 1985). Yet, as we learn from host Recommended. Aud: C, P. (K. Fennessy) Dr. Steven Taylor and various interviewees, a divide exists between those routinely punished for infractions (individuals and small organizations) and those who are not (the multinational corporations that do most of the polluting). Industries that pollute LAW & CRIME without impunity and exploit without social consciousness drive the marketplace, and since capitalism feeds on consumption, companies must keep growing to sustain profits. So there is little economic reason for the system to stop and weigh the consequences Celebrity Trials in the Media HH1/2 for either the planet’s health or for the billions of people with no clean drinking water (2012) 83 min. DVD: $19.95. Cinema Libre Studio or safe haven from industrial mishaps and catastrophe. Possible solutions? Some ideas (avail. from most distributors). here are drawn from sociology, such as the notion that peer influence could play a In America and other Western cultures, the big part in getting people to change their consumer habits; others come from a close media seems to delight in building up celebri- examination of the tenets of Karl Marx and Max Weber. The bottom line is that the ties, and then tearing them down. Although environment will continue to lose ground until sufficient pressure is brought on cor- celebrity journalism has been around at least porations and developing (or developed) countries to change. Recommended. Aud: J, since the days of William Randolph Hearst’s H, C, P. (T. Keogh) “yellow journalism” (his descendant Patty

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 54 MARCH/APRIL 2013 English opens with The Rise of English, which traces the development of modern-day Eng- lish from its origins in the 17th century to its current use around the globe. The second title, A Global Language looks at the language’s growing dominance in commerce, govern- ment, journalism, television broadcasting, and among educated classes, as well as its im- pact on Chinese, Indian, Asian, and African society. Lastly, Future of English asks whether the language’s influence will continue as 205,000 people in far-flung locations adapt English VIDEO CLIPS and make it their own. All three titles feature interviews with college-age students and 14,000 their teachers around the world (an Indian call-center trainer says her trainees want to FULL-LENGTH VIDEOS translate word-for-word from Hindi, resulting in English phrases like “a cup of hot hot tea”; meanwhile, Chinese advertising students learn why they shouldn’t market a dress as appropriate for “street walking”). Individu- als from Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Great Britain talk about how confusing English usage can be, even among native speakers. Worlds of English also examines Award the political implications of English as a winner! unifying—or dividing—factor in the Euro- pean Parliament, and looks at South African efforts to prevent English from overriding local languages. An engaging, informative, and fun series, this is highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (M. Puffer-Rothenberg) SIIA CODiE Award Finalist, “Best Education Reference Solution” Library Journal ”Best Database” Runner-Up, “Best in Media” category NATURE, MATH & SCIENCE THE TOP PRODUCERS IN EDUCATIONAL VIDEO. The Arabian Horse: A Gift from the Desert HHH (2010) 60 min. DVD: $24.95. SeaCastle Film (dist. ANYTIME. ANYWHERE. by Janson Media). PPR. ISBN: 978-1-56839-475-6. Shot in , Oman, Great Brit- Unlimited, Captioning and ain, Kentucky, and California, this lushly � � filmed documentary begins with a look at 24/7 access interactive transcripts the Bedouins, the initial breeders of Arabian on all titles horses (they even keep them in their tents!), � Exclusive content and traces the magnificent animals’ history, including their role in the spread of Islam. � Predefi ned clips � Google Translate The Arabian horse went to with con- quering Moors and to the New World with � New content � Easily embedded Columbus and other traders. Intelligent and added monthly into CMS flexible in battle, the animals were prized throughout Europe, and although they may � Tablet friendly � Free MARC records. look delicate, these creatures are extraordi- narily sturdy and can go a long time without water. Most of today’s Arabian stock can be traced to Ali Pasha Sherif’s vast breeding op- www.InfobaseLearning.com/TrialAD2013 eration in 19th-century Egypt, where at one time 300 camels were employed to provide milk as nourishment. With the collapse of the Ottoman Empire and ensuing poverty in the Mideast, the center of activity moved to the U.S. More recently, however, wealth Facts On File / Chelsea House / Bloom’s / Ferguson’s / The World Almanac® / Films Media Group from oil has led to a return to riding and PHONE: 1-800-322-8755 • [email protected] breeding in the Mideast, especially in Saudi www.InfobaseLearning.com Arabia, where owners of sprawling farms seek the perfect balance between beauty and

MARCH/APRIL 2013 VL_0313_FOD_pp_0213.indd 1 55 VIDEO LIBRAR2/7/13IAN 4:39 PM functionality. Increasingly, Arabian horses infamous “cove,” (featured in the 2009 sell animal parts to markets in Asia. Park’s are also being used for dressage and show, documentary The Cove), where dolphins are footage offers remarkable, intimate footage and the filmmakers interview several young trapped and slaughtered by the hundreds. of tigers he names “Hansel,” “Gretel,” and Saudi women who take part in jumping and Unfortunately, in trying to tell three sto- “Snow White.” Armed with Park’s inspira- endurance competitions. The final message ries—about Rastovich’s love of surfing, his tion and advice, Morgan sets out on his of this film—which is narrated from an Arab growing environmental concerns, and the own, building a hide, and setting cameras point of view and includes interviews with role of oceans in our ecosystem—Minds in along possible trails. While Morgan him- various Saudi ministers—is that the Arabian the Water doesn’t always successfully mesh self misses seeing a tiger, he does succeed horse, now found throughout the world, its diffuse narratives. Still, this should be in catching fleeting footage on one of his brings a message of peace from a history of considered a strong optional purchase remote cameras—noting that the elusive war. Recommended. Aud: P. (F. Gardner) (with the caveat that scenes of dolphin nature of the beast may hold the key to its slaughter may upset some viewers). Aud: best chance for survival. Recommended. Minds in the Water HH1/2 C, P. (S. Rees) Aud: H, C, P. (S. Rees) (2012) 85 min. DVD: $24.95. Saltwater Collective (avail. from www.mindsinthewater.com). Siberian Tiger Quest HHH The Whale HHH1/2 Dave Rastovich, aka “Rasta,” is a profes- (2012) 60 min. DVD: $19.99 ($42.95 w/PPR). (2010) 85 min. DVD: $29.95, Blu-ray: $32.95. sional Australian surfer. Although a self PBS Video. Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-1-60883- Docurama (avail. from most distributors). ISBN: described “beach bum,” Rastovich is also 796-0. 1-4229-2284-7 (dvd). concerned with the environment and water The forests of Russian Siberia are a Narrated by Ryan Reynolds, this beauti- quality of the oceans. Directed by Justin remote and desolate locale, seemingly ful, bittersweet documentary examines four Krumb, Minds in the Water follows the ef- devoid of life. But this is the home of the years in the life of Luna, the young killer forts of Rastovich and his fellow activists rare, reclusive, and magnificent Siberian whale who became separated from his pod to save the habitat of whales and dolphins. tiger, which has been hunted almost to off the west coast of Vancouver Island and Rastovich describes his feelings of “joy and extinction by poachers, and threatened took up residence, alone, in the Nootka gratitude” when he sees these seagoing by loss of habitat, forcing the animals to Sound fjord. Like a child, Luna spent his mammals swim nearby while he surfs, even roam great distances in search of prey. Film- time trying to forge relationships with lo- crediting dolphins with saving him from a makers Mike Birkhead and Joe Loncraine’s cal residents in boats and on docks. Most shark attack. The documentary relates how documentary, aired on PBS’s Nature, follows of the footage finds him engaging humans the economy of Byron Bay, Australia, has biologist Chris Morgan on a quest to find through gentle play, although he occasion- gradually been transformed from its whale and document these wild tigers. Morgan ally refused to let kayakers and people in hunting roots to one supported by tour- meets Sooyong Park, a Korean filmmaker small boats reach shore by pushing them ists who seek to watch whales in the wild. who filmed tiger families, often spending back out to the water. For a long time, folks Threats to whales and dolphins include weeks nearly immobile in an underground spoke to Luna, touched him, gave him toys, dolphin captivity at tourist aquariums, and “hide.” Park advises Morgan to “think like a and developed a strong bond. Inevitably, baited hooks strung out in the ocean, which tiger,” searching for easily overlooked clues, however, a tug of war developed between indiscriminately trap sharks, dolphins, and such as trees and bushes where tigers have different parties who each felt they knew sea turtles, along with tuna. Viewers fol- marked their territory. Wild boars and deer what was best for Luna, including citizens, low Rastovich to whaling conferences, the are common food sources, thanks to the Canada’s Department of Fisheries, activists, Galapagos Islands, America’s western coast large number of trees that still support the and a First Nations tribe, which believed (where he gathers Native American creation ecosystem, in spite of excessive harvesting Luna was the reincarnation of a late chief. stories on the cultural value of whales and of timber. Sadly, some tigers are killed by The situation continued unresolved for dolphins), and, finally, to a protest at Japan’s rifle traps set by poachers, who seek to years, with various plans to reconnect Luna with his family repeatedly scuttled by one or another of the players in this Birders: The Central Park Effect HHH1/2 drama. Co-directors Suzanne Chisholm (2012) 60 min. DVD: $19.95. Music Box Films (avail. from most and Michael Parfit eventually get into the distributors). act, crossing the line from objective wit- Besides serving as an offbeat , Birders is nesses to advocates. As heart-wrenching as one of the most joyful and uplifting recent portrayals of New The Whale can be, the film is also uplifting York City, with director Jeffrey Kimball taking an affectionate in its portrayal of a special and mysterious look at Gotham’s convivial bird-watching community—folks bond between humans and orcas. DVD of all races, genders, and backgrounds who come to Central extras include deleted scenes and a World Park with powerful optics and cameras to witness the 200 Wildlife Fund PSA. Highly recommended. varieties migrating through the landscape each year. Divided Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh) into seasons, the film features interviews with a wide range of enthusiasts, including a trombone technician, a cancer patient who measures out The Worm Hunters HHH her life in bird sightings, professional ornithologists and representatives from the (2011) 52 min. DVD: $49: public libraries & high Audubon Society, and writer Jonathan Franzen. While celebrating the richness of schools; $89: colleges & universities. Green Planet avian life on view, the documentary also makes the point that the seeming abun- Films. PPR. dance tends to hide an alarming decline over time. The high-rise-dwelling hawk, Narrated and hosted by British taxono- dubbed Pale Male, who’s been the topic of various documentaries (including Pale mist Emma Sherlock, filmmaker Randall Male [VL-9/04]) and books, makes a brief showing, but he’s just one of the many Wood’s The Worm Hunters goes under- subjects flitting through (an “in-order-of-appearance” checklist runs over the clos- ground—literally—in search of earth- ing credits). DVD extras include a field guide booklet, additional interviews with worms, presenting a globetrotting research Franzen and others, and a “Birds of Central Park” video guide. Highly recommended. group of taxonomists on a mission to find Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady) and name as-yet unidentified species of these underappreciated subterranean deni-

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 56 MARCH/APRIL 2013 zens. Backed by computer-generated images and an action-adventure soundtrack, this documentary follows dedicated scientists Escape Fire: The Fight to Rescue American Healthcare in their labs and in the field, as they share HHH1/2 their enthusiasm for their work and detail (2012) 99 min. DVD: $27.98. Lionsgate (avail. from most distributors). its importance (for one expert in South Closed captioned. Africa, the hunt involves grave danger: he If you thought last year’s Supreme Court 5-4 ruling affirm- goes into the wild and vigorously shovels ing Obamacare was the last word on the subject of American soil while rifle-bearing guards form a pro- healthcare, you will be in for a surprise watching Matthew tective circle to ward off predators). View- Heineman and Susan Froemke’s documentary. According to ers will learn that the number of known Escape Fire, the U.S. spent $2.7 trillion on healthcare in 2011, earthworm species is about 6,000, and that and spending levels are expected to only increase this year. perhaps several thousand have yet to be The problem, according to the filmmakers, is grossly misplaced identified. Furthermore, science has only priorities, particularly in federal spending programs that emphasize the quantity recently been able to successfully assess of patients being treated over the quality of care. Holistic health leader Dr. Andrew the wriggly creatures’ positive impact on Weil, prominently featured here, cogently observes, “We don’t have a healthcare the global ecosystem. Unfortunately, the system in this country. We have a disease management system.” Some of the argu- researchers face a race against time thanks ments presented—the suffocating control of the pharmaceutical industry on the to reckless commercial overdevelopment healthcare debate, the reluctance of insurance providers to embrace so-called alterna- that has already created environmental tive treatments—have been covered in similar documentaries. However, hearing a disasters around the world and threatens condemnation of the system by Donald Berwick, President Obama’s Administrator to imperil the survival of many kinds of of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services from 2010 to 2011, is surprising, earthworms. Wood makes this story quite and certainly not an endorsement for Obamacare as the cure-all prescription. DVD compelling, presenting the information in extras include audio commentary by the directors, behind-the-scenes featurettes, a user-friendly manner that will be easily and deleted and extended scenes. A provocative, often disturbing film that is sure understood by those unfamiliar with the to spark debate, this is highly recommended. [Note: this is also available for $95 related ecological science. Recommended. w/PPR for public libraries, and $295 w/PPR for colleges and universities from Ro*co Aud: H, C, P. (P. Hall) Films Educational (www.rocoeducational.com).] Aud: C, P. (P. Hall)

HEALTH & FITNESS for clients who require upgrades on their lifestyle. Recommended. Aud: H, C, P. artificial limbs. Offering an inspiring (M. Puffer-Rothenberg) overview of life-changing advances in the Out on a Limb HHH1/2 field, this is highly recommended. Aud: C, Programmed to Be Fat? HHH1/2 (2012) 61 min. DVD: $125: public libraries & high P. (P. Hall) (2012) 45 min. DVD: $295. Dreamfilm schools; $295: colleges & universities. Under the Productions (dist. by Bullfrog Films). PPR. Closed Sign. PPR. Pass (on) the Salt: Shaking the Habit captioned. ISBN: 1-93777-216-0. Daria Price’s documentary takes an in- HHH A hefty thesis underscores this Canadian- vigorating look at the significant advances (2012) 20 min. DVD: $89 (educator’s guide made scientific detective story documen- being made in the design and manufacture included). Learning Seed. PPR. Closed captioned. tary. While proper diet and exercise are of prosthetic limbs. For many years, crudely ISBN: 978-1-55740-618-7. unquestionably good, what if the root causes crafted devices were hastily assembled to Pass (on) the Salt addresses the health underlying the Western world’s obesity meet the needs of injured war veterans. hazards of eating too much salty food, epidemic have nothing to do with sedentary But the large number of military amputees while also looking at ways to reduce over- living or overeating? Several international returning from World War II required a consumption of salt. A female narrator ex- scientists—noting that even lab animals, dramatic reconsideration. Recently, the plains that the human body needs sodium raised in controlled conditions, are becoming number of military amputees has substan- to function properly; however, while most abnormally larger—have begun to look at tially increased due to the wars in Iraq and foods contain sodium, Americans take in “obesogens,” a class of chemicals often used Afghanistan, while civilian amputee rates too much of it daily, primarily from pro- in industry (suspects include nicotine, lead, are also on the rise from diseases such cessed or prepared items. Manufacturers bisphenols, tributyltin, atrazine, and dioxin) as diabetes. Fortunately, there have been and restaurants use sodium as a preserva- that trigger the rapid production of fat cells. remarkable breakthroughs in robotics and tive, or to enhance taste, and consumers Entering the food chain and infiltrating the neuroscience, resulting in new prosthetic have become accustomed to the result. But human cycle early via mothers’ breast milk, devices that are both more comfortable as this guidance program notes, people can these substances can have epigenetic effects, and more efficient. Indeed, some of the cut back and reverse their tolerance by con- passing fat genes onto the developing fetus. new technology is truly awe-inspiring, suming fresh and whole foods, preparing Quite insidiously, small doses of the suspect particularly a robotic hand that brilliantly their own meals, and buying low-sodium chemicals have more severe consequences mirrors the movements of a human one. or salt-free products. Still images, simple than large ones (which is partially why they Even more fascinating is the progress made of veins and blood cells, and went unnoticed for so long) in this theory in pediatric prosthetic design, enabling scenes of college-age men and women that rewrites basic assumptions about being children with lost limbs to enjoy healthy selecting, preparing, or eating healthy or overweight. Narrated by David Suzuki (CBC’s and active lives. If there is a sour note here, unhealthy foods reinforce the concepts The Nature of Things, serving here as co-pro- it comes from the U.S. health insurance presented here. Citing the longstanding ducer), filmmaker Bruce Mohun’s provocative industry—according to the film, too many (but disputed) nutritional maxim that Programmed to Be Fat? deftly interweaves insurance companies stubbornly insist high salt intake leads to hypertension, this interviews, animation, and live-action to that one prosthetic can last a lifetime and, program delivers sound advice on eating present an interesting concept. Highly rec- thus, refuse to offer proper compensation well and generally pursuing a healthy ommended. Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady)

MARCH/APRIL 2013 57 VIDEO LIBRARIAN Apogee Communications Group Presents Emergency Preparedness — Awareness & Survival — Dr. Lisa: Yoga Blast Spotlight on Fitness ★★★ (2012) 63 min. DVD: 10 Minute Solution: $16.99. Acacia (avail. from most distributors). ISBN: Tighten & Tone 978-1-59828-948-0. Pilates ★★★ The emphasis is often (2012) 57 min. DVD: on the “blast” in this se- $16.98. Anchor Bay ries of yoga-infused exercises presented by Entertainment (avail. from most distributors). Closed television personality Dr. Lisa Masterson. captioned. Although the program offers a slower- Instructor Laura Hudson leads a series paced section with a more traditional of fi ve 10-minute Pilates workouts that yoga routine, the main feature here is can be mixed and matched into a cus- a yoga workout that includes stretches, Award dance steps, and a generally brisk pace, Winner tomized routine, focusing on building strength in a specifi c part of the body, moving from a swiftly-paced dance seg- and moving from the easygoing lean ment through ballet-inspired stretches to a yoga cool-down. Dr. Lisa partners with ★★★1/2 Highly Recommended. —Video Librarian stretch, to more demanding tightened health and wellness instructor Elise Joan Includes 16 chapters of life saving information. and toned core combinations. Hudson Learn important steps to take to prepare for uses a latex resistance band throughout, on all three routines, serving up light, various emergency situations. Topics include: which is useful for maintaining balance inspirational banter and constant words water, food, weather-related disasters, and holding positions, while also making of encouragement. In the cardio segment, hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards, the moves more challenging. Individual the bright fl owers and plants in the garden fl oods, earthquakes, power outages, routines are performed standing, kneel- background can distract the eye during terrorism, , and more. ing, or lying on the fl oor, and while some the more complex moves, but the less busy 89 min. | Retail: $39.95 | UPC: 783557077496 | ©2012 exercises may appear simple, many re- background in an outdoor pavilion during APOGEE COMMUNICATIONS GROUP quire considerable strength and balance, the strength and power stretch sections # Award Winning Health & Safety DVDs # and may not be suitable for beginners. makes it easier to focus on the instructors. 159 Alpine Way, Boulder, CO. 80304 • Phone: 800-210-5700 While the accompanying resistance band Recommended. Aud: P. (K. Cruver) Fax: 303-443-0500 • Web: www.apogeevideo.com presents a problem for libraries (patrons would have to supply their own), this is Element: Intro to Yoga an intense workout. Recommended. Aud: ★★★ P. (K. Cruver) (2012) 75 min. DVD: $14.98. Anchor Bay Entertainment (avail. from Dance Off the Inches: most distributors). Closed Latin Cardio Party captioned. ★★★ Tamal Dodge moves through yoga pos- (2012) 44 min. DVD: es in a lovely outdoor setting, presenting $14.98. Anchor Bay sequences in real time, except for an ab- Entertainment (avail. from breviated shavasana (or corpse pose). With most distributors). Closed captioned. a relaxing voice, Dodge clearly explains the various positions, describing how New York-based fi tness instructor Em- they affect the body, while also pointing ily Naim presents a fast-paced, intense out which muscles are being exercised. dance workout, serving up three Latin Breathing instruction is enhanced with 1/2 routines that can be played separately, the sound of breath and formless music. or together for an hour-long workout. A Dodge expects effort but discourages Video Librarian Review Jan/Feb 2013 “step” guide offers thorough instruction obsession, noting that “there’s no need on some of the more complex moves to ever rush.” The beginning exercises are 54321+8®: Countdown to and combinations, such as the slinky, easier, with optional instructions for us- Your Health DVD cumbia, and samba. Naim breaks down ing blocks (Dodge demonstrates an entire 300038 $79.95 | DVD UPC#846742002991 these movements for feet and arms, while sequence on the right side of the body, “…combines solid tips for maintaining good demonstrating the fi ner points of each followed by the same one on the left). The health with commentary from experts and motion, enabling viewers to add a little second part of the program, set at a more real teens…this is highly recommended.” spice to their exercises once they have intermediate level, adds some more dif- 24 Minutes, Closed Captioned, mastered the technical elements. With fi cult movements, including challenging Grade 6 – Adult her bright red cargo pants and hoop ear- balance postures that require additional rings, Naim boasts a sassy, street-smart strength and fl exibility. Recommended. persona that lends the proceedings an Aud: P. (F. Gardner) extra shot of fun, while two back-up dancers help pump up the energy level Gentle Yoga for Every Body ★★★ with their enthusiastic modifi ed versions (2012) 60 min. DVD: $29.95. YogaJP (dist. by CALL 888.455.7003 and occasional spirited shout-outs. Rec- The AV Cafe). PPR. OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE: ommended. Aud: P. (K. Cruver) As a veteran of back pain and spinal www.learningzonexpress.com

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 58 MARCH/APRIL 2013 Sponsored by BayView Entertainment surgeries, Marjorie Old nell produced this com- has a deep understand- pilation that includes ing of how to adapt yoga two separate workouts to fit the constraints of designed specifically age, weight, stiffness, or for senior citizens. Fo- disability. Offering clear cusing on functional and precise directions, training for daily life Old demonstrates here (which can be handy some poses that can be done in an office when playing with chair, noting that even easy moves will grandkids), Stronger Seniors Workout stretch muscles and help with flexibility. features a variety of moves mostly In a series of segments (“Upper Body performed while sitting. “Stretch” Stretches and Twists,” “Strengthen and includes shoulder raises, toe-taps, arm Lengthen,” “Strong Foundation,” and stretches, leg lifts, back rotations, and “Supporting Your Center”), Old continu- gentle sliding abs work, with descrip- ally encourages participants to breathe tions such as “pull the curtain closed” and to work with what their body can or “hula dancer.” For the higher-im- handle at any particular moment. Al- pact “Strength,” Burnell notes that DISCOVER TAI CHI FOR FITNESS BAY384, $14.99 though she doesn’t name most of the viewers can use small hand weights Designed in ve sections to be done standard postures, labels such as “cactus (although not recommended for begin- individually or collectively depending on arms” and “windshield wiper knees” ners) for this set—with some standing tness level, the brand-new Discover Tai make these movements both clear and moves—that features shoulder lifts, Chi for Fitness DVD guides you through memorable. As the program progresses, aerobic tap-and-reach combos, punches, Balance, Strength, Mobility, Flexibility, and the exercises become more complex and dribbling, hip-shaking, and lunges. The Stress-reduction sections plus three challenging, with some performed on the participating seniors shown here follow bonus routines. Instructor Scott Cole floor or requiring greater balance, but Old along easily enough, and appear to be brings Tai Chi to life with this effective, and a plus-size assistant also demonstrate having a good time. Recommended. easy-to-follow workout that celebrates his adaptations meant to accommodate cer- Aud: P. ( ) 10th year at the helm of the top-selling J. Williams-Wood and top-rated Discover Tai Chi DVD series. tain physical restrictions. Recommended. Aud: P. (F. Gardner) Ultimate Kettlebell Workouts for Hip Hop Walk HHH Beginners HHH (2012) 60 min. DVD: (2012) 79 min. DVD: $19.99. BayView $16.99. Acacia (avail. from Entertainment (avail. from most distributors). ISBN: most distributors). 978-1-59828-949-7. Fitness professional With a strong focus Amy Bento Ross performs on safety and proper solo in this high-energy form, this easygoing introduction to workout that features hip-hop moves working out with a kettlebell features backed by a thumping soundtrack in instructor Paul Katami, who begins which the tempo is directly correlated to (with an assistant) by demonstrating the activity. Kicking off with a warm-up, proper equipment weight, position- Hip Hop Walk consists of various combos ing, and warm up exercises (primarily of marching, toe-taps, shrugs, claps, leg designed to prepare wrists, ankles, and lifts, and bounces, as well as step-touch, joints for the extra stress of the heavy TOTAL BODY YOGA grapevine, and other exaggerations of kettlebells). To help beginners avoid BV2548, $24.99 movement geared towards engaging the injury, Katami also explains common From the most trusted name in yoga worldwide – Yoga Journal – comes the torso and promoting strenuous arm work, pitfalls and errors in form. In the sec- ending with cool-down stretches. Ross is new Total Body Yoga two-DVD set, ond segment, Katami leads a workout featuring six go-to sequences to work in hyper form, chatting the viewer up dedicated to drills and combinations, with encouragement along the way to your body and calm your mind. This while the final section is devoted to comprehensive set of sequences covers “bring it” and “feel those break beats,” core-strengthening exercises. All three a wide variety of poses, helping you providing ample inspiration to keep up sections can be played individually build the foundation for a strong with the pumping, continuous routine. or as one long workout. “Drills and practice that will stretch and strengthen And for those new to hip-hop, as the Combinations” consists of several your body, reduce stress, and boost your host says, “…if you’re not funky, don’t standing swings, lifts, and stretches, conndence. You’ll learn to increase your energy with twists, build strength with worry—you’re fine.” Recommended. Aud: while most of “Core Strengthening” P. ( J. Williams-Wood) arm balances, release tension with hip is floor exercises, with the bell being openers, and much more. used to stabilize the body. Set outdoors, Stronger Seniors Workout Program: with pleasant greenery and flowers, the Stretch & Strength HHH pace is steady, but laidback enough for (2012) 60 min. DVD: $29.99. BayView beginners to quickly get up to speed. Entertainment (avail. from most distributors). DVD extras include a text bio of Katami. Order from your distributor or Fitness instructor Anne Pringle Bur- Recommended. Aud: P. (K. Cruver) call BayView at 201-488-6110 WWW. BAYVIEWENTERTAINMENT. COM

MARCH/APRIL 2013 59 VIDEO LIBRARIAN a former chemist who closed his celebrated sex columnist Dan Savage finds pointless. CHILDBIRTH & PARENTING restaurant after surviving a violent crime. Swank Ivy, who has posted a series of videos Hachmeister interviews Michelin’s head, to YouTube, shares Jay’s lack of sexual inter- learning about the organization’s use of un- est, and agrees that publicity can only help to Prenatal & Early Childhood Nutrition identified testers who determine ratings. But de-stigmatize their situation. Other asexuals HHH far more interesting are the glimpses into the wonder about the link between autism and (2012) 25 min. DVD: $79.95 (downloadable inner workings of the chefs’ establishments, asexuality. Throughout, Tucker works in clips teacher’s guide available). Learning Zone Express. from staff meetings to kitchen dynamics to from vintage educational films and celebrity PPR. Closed captioned. after-hours planning for the next day. Highly interviewees, such as Morrissey, who opts Dietician Melissa Halas-Liang serves as recommended. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh) for the word “celibate” over “asexual.” As for the main expert for this primer on proper Jay, the film’s primary subject, his situation nutrition guidelines for pregnant or breast- turns out to be more complicated, since he feeding women. Combining onscreen lists RELATIONSHIPS & SEXUALITY longs for children and emotional intimacy, with personal stories, Prenatal & Early Child- but struggles with finding a path to accom- hood Nutrition explains that extra calories plish these goals. Recommended. Aud: C, P. are needed for mothers during different (A)Sexual: A Minority No Longer Silent (K. Fennessy) trimesters—citing the MyPlate government HHH sanctioned nutrition guide as helpful in (2012) 74 min. DVD: $350. Filmakers Library. developing a meal plan. Offering different PPR. ISBN: 978-1-4631-1571-5. BEAUTY & FASHION snack ideas to cover various food groups, the Angela Tucker’s non-judgmental documen- program also addresses issues such as morn- tary considers the possibility that asexuality ing sickness and cravings, and explores ways may be a sexual orientation like heterosexual- Do You Have What It Takes? Fashion to avoid problems such as Listeria (a bacterial ity or , rather than a choice, Design Careers HHH food infection), mercury from fish, and not such as celibacy. Dr. Anthony Bogaert, a (2012) 22 min. DVD: $79.95 (downloadable getting enough vitamins or hydration. As Brock University psychology professor, says teacher’s guide available). Learning Zone Express. one participant sagely notes, “I don’t think that previous studies focused only on sexual PPR. Closed captioned. you can ever be fully prepared, but you just attraction to men and women, so he offered Sporting nice production values, this try your best.” A solid overview that offers “neither” as an option on a survey, which fast-paced program focuses on the world of healthy tips and advice for mother and baby, was selected by 1% of the respondents—a sta- fashion design. Do You Have What It Takes? while also fostering good future habits for the tistically notable proportion. Of the asexual includes commentary from up-and-comers whole family, this is recommended. Aud: H, subjects profiled here, some have had sex, and including Project Runway contestants Christo- C, P. (J. Williams-Wood) some haven’t, but none have enjoyed it. David pher Straub and Danielle Everine, and former Jay, a San Francisco activist, says he’s never NFL Washington Redskin turned designer felt sexual desire, and sees no reason to keep Gibran Hamdan, among others, who explore FOOD & SPIRITS his nature a secret, although his use of the the traits best suited to design careers, such phrase “I came out to my parents” (as asexual) as a strong sense of individuality, persistence, sounds a bit strange. During the two-year and flexibility, as well as the ability to search Three Stars HHH1/2 film shoot, Jay organizes a group to march in for inspiration in all aspects of life. Other key (2010) 94 min. In English, German, Dutch, the city’s annual pride parade, a move that skills include quickly adapting to technical Japanese, Italian, Spanish & French w/English subtitles. DVD: $27.95. First Run Features (avail. from most distributors). Whores’ Glory HHH1/2 This captivating documentary focuses on (2012) 119 min. In Bengali, Spanish, Thai, German, French & Japanese the impact of Michelin ratings on a number w/English subtitles. DVD: $29.95 (avail. from most distributors), $249 of world-class chefs who either crave the in- w/PPR (avail. from www.kinolorberedu.com). Kino Lorber. ternational guide’s elusive three stars or have One of the boldest documentary treatments of the skin trade turned their backs on related pressure. The since the ’ attitudinal American Pimp, director first half of the film introduces 10 chefs whose Michael Glawogger’s Whores’ Glory worms its way inside restaurants—in locales ranging from New in Bangkok, Thailand; Reynosa, Mexico; and Bangladesh to offer York to Europe to Japan—are widely revered. up an unrelenting—and sometimes sexually explicit—fly-on- Filmmaker Lutz Hachmeister provides a useful the-wall perspective of these houses of ill repute. Glawogger’s profile of each culinary artist: backgrounds, camera captures fascinatingly (and disturbingly) different sides food experiments, kitchen philosophy, and of the same profession: from the relatively orderly quotidian showcasing of the work- more. We meet Jean-Georges Vongerichten, ing women on display like porcelain dolls behind huge glass windows in Bangkok, to who operates several restaurants around the the more hellish hole-in-the-wall environment in which prostitutes in Bangladesh world from a base in the Trump Tower; Rene and Reynosa ply their trade. In Reynosa, the conditions are exceptionally bleak and Redzepi, considered by many to be the best the prostitutes crack-addicted, but the toughest and saddest truths come during the chef in the world, with a focus on Scandi- segment on Faridpur, Bangladesh: here, the one-on-one confessional interviews with navian cuisine (but who only has two stars some of the anguished prostitutes are heartbreakingly sad, becoming almost poetic to date); and father-and-daughter team Juan laments over the appalling conditions they endure and the ruthless fate to which they Mari and Elena Arzak, who use a machine are resigned. Perhaps the greatest strength of Whores’ Glory is its humanizing aspect: for capturing and converting flavors into most of the women interviewed here are intelligent, reflective, thoughtful human beings powdered seasoning. Most intriguing are driven to sell their bodies in backward economies that still offer few viable working two chefs largely unconcerned with ratings: opportunities for women. DVD extras include a stills gallery. With the caveat about Tokyo’s Hideki Ishikawa, whose eatery has some graphic content, this is highly recommended for more adventurous collections. three stars that he considers mostly irrel- Aud: C, P. (M. Sandlin) evant; and the fascinating Olivier Roellinger,

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 60 MARCH/APRIL 2013 advances, solid time-management, and working well with others. The program’s To Catch a Dollar: Muhammad Yunus Banks on America participants also mention various educa- HHH tion degrees pertinent to their craft. In 1/2 (2013) 85 min. DVD: $19.95. Shout! Factory (avail. from most the end, designers enjoy the satisfaction distributors). of being able to show their unique per- sonalities to the world through finished Gayle Ferraro’s outstanding documentary follows the creation products. Recommended. Aud: J, H, C, P. of the nonprofit organization Grameen America, starting with its rocky beginnings in Queens, NY, prior to and during America’s (J. Williams-Wood) financial collapse in 2009. An extension of the microfinance work of Nobel Peace Prize recipient Muhammad Yunus—who BUSINESS & ECONOMICS began Grameen in Bangladesh during that country’s terrible 1970s famine—Grameen America is based on Yunus’s unrelenting belief that micro-loans for poor women who are organized into peer support groups can open opportunities for families, lift entire communities, and foster cultural con- We’re Not Broke HHH nections. Grameen has had tremendous success with its self-sustaining program all (2012) 81 min. DVD: $95: high schools & public over the world, but To Catch a Dollar looks at specific obstacles in America, where the libraries; $295: colleges & universities. Ro*co Films Educational. PPR. core idea has trouble taking hold (some potential customers, for instance, assume it’s a front for the Mafia). The filmmakers follow the work of young managers who meet with Filmmakers Karin Hayes and Victoria women, chart their success, and witness lives changing for the better. Yet some loan Bruce argue that depleted municipal bud- clients have trouble keeping their support groups intact or face immediate economic gets, shuttered schools, and social-services disaster after being deserted by the fathers of their children. Combining compelling cutbacks need not be commonplace in real-life drama with an insightful primer on the work of Yunus and Grameen, To Catch America—if only big, greedy corpora- a Dollar deftly explains how and why microfinancing can work in the banking indus- tions yielded the billions they rightfully try, which traditionally rejects poor people. DVD extras include Ferraro’s related 2000 owe in federal income tax. Instead, giant documentary Sixteen Decisions (along with an update featurette for that film). Highly companies such as General Electric, Cisco recommended. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh) Systems, Microsoft, Google—and even the much-admired Apple—pay little or no taxes, thanks in part to off-shore shelters, ism remains the best hope for the future challenges conventional notions of athleti- especially in Bermuda and the Caymans of the country. But that’s certainly not cism and body image. The Georgia native ( cameos here), that exploit what’s on the minds of the young Chinese became a national champion as a teenager legal loopholes in the 72,000-page tax code. boxers who are followed here by Sino-Ca- and went on to compete in three Olympic Meanwhile, corporate lobbyists continue to nadian filmmaker . Pursuing games. A large woman, she takes pride in campaign for cuts in their employer’s tax a self-determined path toward dreams of her size, which has allowed her to prevail rates, a move backed by politicians despite athletic glory, the teen pugilists profiled in a male-dominated sport, citing the added little evidence that anyone would benefit, (in remarkably revealing and touching physical leverage that is made possible with aside from CEOs and the super-richest. Sup- ways) literally walk away from traditional, a larger frame. She also has a sense of hu- portive interviewees run the gamut—from hardscrabble family obligations in order mor, noting that due to her size, “breaking business authors and economic journalists to pursue their own goals. Moreover, they furniture” comes with the territory. Wyman (from Tax Notes, Tax Analysts, and Bloomberg eschew taking an official route to success, concentrates on Haworth’s career after her News) to young anti-corporate activist Carl rejecting government-led pressure to bring bronze win in 2000. Haworth feels she Gibson, who founded the protest group US honor as fighters to their hometowns, has found her calling, but suffers a blow Uncut in imitation of a similar grassroots Sichuan province, and ultimately China when an injury slows her down, although U.K. organization, and is proud to back itself. Much of the film focuses on the she recovers in time to train for the world Occupy Wall Street. Although sometimes restless Miao Yunfei, a 19-year-old who championships in Taiwan and the Olympics guilty of oversimplification (did being a idolizes Mike Tyson and embraces the in Beijing. After graduating from art school, corporate tax-haven sellout really collapse individualistic spirit of a brutal Western Haworth moves to Colorado Springs to work Ireland’s “economic miracle?”), this power- sport. But the most compelling figure here out at the Olympic Training Center. While ful documentary is non-partisan—making is boxing coach Qi Moxiang (whose speed she can lift over 350 pounds, she trains with Democrats look as bad as Republicans when and strength in the ring is seen in archival men who can lift over 600 and she competes it comes to greed and pandering. Recom- footage), a man committed to training Miao against other women who can lift almost mended. Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady) and others. Qi looks haunted when he 400. After a second injury, Haworth begins dares ponder a comeback and the wisdom to ponder life after weightlifting, but her of doing something for himself. Yung has size precludes her entry into some careers, SPORTS, GAMES & RECREATION a remarkably fluid style, delivering an un- such as the Coast Guard, which has strict expectedly tender film about the price of requirements about weight. Haworth goes coming into one’s own. DVD extras include on to compete in 2008, but walks off into China Heavyweight HHH deleted scenes. Recommended. Aud: C, P. an uncertain future, although it’s hard to (2012) 89 min. In Chinese & Sichuanese w/English (T. Keogh) imagine that she won’t find another field subtitles. DVD: $29.99. (avail. in which to make her mark. Aside from from most distributors). Strong! HHH Haworth, other female weightlifters here Late in China Heavyweight, a documen- (2012) 75 min. DVD: $125: high schools & public also offer their thoughts about the sport. tary shot over a couple of years in rural libraries; $275: colleges & universities. Sarafina DVD extras include an audio commentary Sichuan province, a big crowd gathers in a Productions (dist. by Transit Media). PPR. by Haworth, Wyman, and cinematographer town square to hear ceremonial talk about Weightlifter Cheryl Haworth, the subject Anne Etheridge, a behind-the-scenes fea- the 90th anniversary of Chinese commu- of filmmaker Julie Wyman’s documentary turette, and deleted scenes. Recommended. nism. One of the speakers says that social- (which aired on PBS’s Independent Lens), Aud: C, P. (K. Fennessy)

MARCH/APRIL 2013 61 VIDEO LIBRARIAN Tackling Concussions Head On HHHH THE ARTS (2012) 28 min. DVD: $24.95. Library Video Network. PPR. ISBN: 1- 56641-126-2. While unquestionably exciting, contact sports such as First Position HHH1/2 football carry a greater potential for dangerous concussions, (2011) 94 min. DVD: $24.98. MPI Media Group the subject of this instructive program that defines symptoms (avail. from most distributors). ISBN: 0-7886- and provides useful directions for those working with athletes. 1603-X. Once upon a time, players were encouraged to “walk it off,” Filmmaker Bess Kargman (who herself but these days, coaches, officials, and parents are increasingly studied ballet) delivers a beautiful dance looking for telltale signs following sporting mishaps and trying documentary in First Position, which follows to take the right steps to prevent permanent harm. Of the 22 a group of likeable multi-ethnic kids striving possible indicators, at the top of the list are headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, in a mighty performance competition. The and difficulty thinking or remembering (loss of consciousness is not a requisite). contest here is the Youth America Grand So what should a person do in a case of suspected concussion? The first step is to Prix, a world-traveling exhibition of both immediately take the injured individual out of the game for a thorough evaluation classical and modern dance that serves as a from a medical professional. Of course, players often don’t want to miss play time route to school scholarships and (increasingly (or let their teams, coaches, or parents down), and might shrug off assistance even rare, in the downsize era) job slots in profes- though a problem exists. An impressive lineup of physicians, sports officials, and sional troupes. The contenders in Kargman’s NFL notables here share real-life experiences, while also stressing that intervention spotlight (who all have supportive families) is crucial. Interesting fact: although many of us immediately think of football or include Michaela, an adoptee from war in soccer in relation to concussions, one of the most dangerous activities is actually Sierra Leone (her struggles as a rare African in synchronized swimming! Informative and timely, this valuable program is highly ballet is a story all in itself); Miko and Jules, a recommended. Editor’s Choice. Aud: J, H, C, P. (C. Block) brother/sister act of Anglo-Japanese ancestry; Joan, living far from his family in Columbia; and , a pink-clad all-American girl Tales of Masked Men HHH Victorious Vettel: The Official Review (with a refreshing lack of ego or attitude). (2012) 55 min. DVD: $24.99 ($54.95 w/PPR). of the 2012 FIA Formula One World The dancers’ assorted routines are presented PBS Video. Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-1-60883- uncut in the disc extras, and while it’s hard 780-9. Championship HHH1/2 to pick a standout, Gaya Bommer Yemini’s A colorful attraction—part sport, part (2012) 2 discs. 317 min. DVD: $29.99. SRO (dist. “Cartoon Girl” (created and choreographed by Kultur International Films). ISBN: 978-0-7697- by her mom) is not soon forgotten. Other theater—thrives in Mexico City and smaller 5000-2. arenas scattered throughout Mexico. Known extras include audio commentary by the Running more than five hours, this as , or “free fight” or struggle, director, and training and rehearsal footage. is the exciting official record of the 20 the sports involves masked men who circle An inspiring documentary, this is highly each other before engaging in acrobatic international races comprising the FIA’s recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (C. Cassady) wrestling takedowns in front of enthusias- 2012 Formula One World Championship tic audiences. Although the contest is best season. Small cameras mounted on the The Flying House Project HH known to Americans through the parody fronts and backs of Formula One racing (2012) 120 min. DVD: $19.99. Microcinema film Nacho Libre, starring Jack Black, the vehicles tell the story of these races, from International. PPR. sport is taken seriously in Mexico and is a Australia in March to Brazil in Novem- Oscar-nominated animator and beloved big business. Directed by Carlos Avila, this ber, capturing the triumphs—as well as iconoclast Bill Plympton decided to remaster PBS-aired documentary describes the origin the mishaps, , and running Winsor McCay’s 1921 animated short The Fly- and growth of Lucha Libre, characterized off-track—with a driver’s point-of-view ing House. Part of a series based on McCay’s by some as a “false sport” and others as a intensity. While the ultimate outcome is comic strip “Dream of a Rarebit Fiend,” the distinctly good vs. evil morality play that well-known to racing fans (Sebastian Vet- short focuses on a woman who goes to bed speaks to the Mexican soul. Born during tel claimed a briefly-contested victory), the after a Welsh rarebit dinner and dreams that the 1930s, the sport has become a family season’s many mini-dramas are certain to her overweight husband has rebelled against event and favorite of working class fans (and be riveting to Formula One followers, in- paying their mortgage by turning their house wrestlers even wear their masks outside the cluding the absence of a clear leader in the into a giant airplane—complete with a pro- ring), producing celebrity wrestlers such as championship’s first seven rounds; nasty peller. The couple fly their home through “El Santo” (“the saint”), who performed for collisions and entanglements; changes in various locations, knocking over a water decades, acquiring a following by starring in team drivers; and a return of the United tower and wrecking an arboretum before tak- comic books and films. A very physical sport, States Grand Prix after a year off. This head- ing off into space and landing on the moon, Lucha Libre requires rigorous training, and spinning, superfast (in every sense) set’s where an unfriendly giant tries to crush them sometimes leads to serious injuries. In an highlights include Michael Schumacher’s with a fly swatter. While McCay’s animation unusual feature of the sport, wrestling “little up-and-down season (the past champion is subversively inventive, Plympton takes persons” are both popular and accorded suffered a hydraulics failure in Canada and the restoration process a little too far, as the full respect. Masked wrestlers and cultural retired after Brazil); Fernando Alonso’s two silent, black-and-white original is colorized anthropologists also describe the symbolic wins at the European Grand Prix; Vettel’s and saddled with a new dialogue track featur- importance of the mask in Mexican culture; near-disaster with tire failure in Korea; and ing Matthew Modine and Patricia Clarkson indeed, fathers pass the legacy on to their comeback kid Kimi Räikkönen’s victory as the airborne duo. Even worse, Plympton sons in a process known as “earning the in Abu Dhabi. Interviews with drivers, a re-edited the whole thing by removing the mask.” Shedding some fascinating light on look at the work of officials, and plenty comic strip–style dialogue balloons used by a major cultural phenomenon little known of pit action nicely complement all of the McCay to compensate for the lack of sound in the United States, this engaging documen- high-octane circuit thrills. Highly recom- recording. In doing so, Plympton completely tary is recommended. Aud: C, P. (S. Rees) mended. Aud: P. (T. Keogh) transforms the source work’s distinctively

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 62 MARCH/APRIL 2013 goofy style (and, quite frankly, the dialogue George Lopez: It’s Not Me, It’s You and (non-subtitled) Spanish before an balloons are more enchanting than Modine ★★★ enthusiastic audience. The show opens in and Clarkson’s hammy voice performances). (2012) 56 min. DVD: $19.98. HBO Home clever fashion with Lopez driving through DVD extras include a pre-restored original Entertainment (avail from most distributors). L.A. and greeting the likes of Cheech and version of McCay’s short, a “making-of” Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-1-6240-4197-6. Chong, Ray Romano, and Sarah Silver- featurette, and interviews with animation George Lopez is front and center in this man from the driving seat of a beat-up, historians. A strange endeavor, overall, this is HBO live comedy special featuring the low-rider car spewing toxins. This Latino an optional purchase. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall) comedian alternating between English stereotype joke is followed by many more during Lopez’s stage act, which is largely about contrasting Latino family life and culture in America with that of whites and All’s Well That Ends Well ★★★1/2 African-Americans. The bottom line in (2011) 2 discs. 138 min. DVD: $29.99. Kultur International Films (avail. most of Lopez’s jokes is that Latinos don’t from most distributors). ISBN: 978-0-7697-9243-9. coddle anyone: not strangers, not spouses, Filmed live at London’s rebuilt Globe Theatre, this 2011 not children, and especially not politicians, performance of All’s Well That Ends Well—considered one of ignoring them and exploiting immigra- Shakespeare’s “problem plays”—mostly shines. John Dove’s tion issues. “Latinos know the difference staging is quite simple, with designer Michael Taylor relying on between a wet fl oor and a dry fl oor,” Lopez traditional costumes and spare settings. Sam Crane brings to says of public bathrooms. They don’t need the role of Bertram—the young count who disdains to marry a sign.” Latinos, apparently, don’t mince Helena, the physician’s daughter who pines for him—a sense words either. “She’s not my cup of tea,” goes of immaturity that offsets the character’s snobbery, while Ellie Lopez’s impression of the dainty way whites Piercy skillfully captures Helena’s combination of feistiness and reticence. The older politely express disapproval, with the Latino fi gures are also handled well by Janie Dee as Bertram’s mother and Sam Cox as the alternative being, “I don’t want her in my imperious French king, while in the able hands of James Garnon and Colin Hurley, fucking house.” Eventually, Lopez moves the comic duets between the cowardly Parolles and the dismissive Lavatch are played on to political topics, noting the gathering with a nice degree of subtlety. If there is any drawback here, it’s the audience, which strength of Latino voters to make or break guffaws so loudly at the slightest provocation—even when the text doesn’t really invite elections, and recalling his three visits to such reaction—that they become somewhat intrusive. But this is truly a minor quibble the White House as a guest of President in this otherwise fi ne production. Highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (F. Swietek) Obama. “Obama is the closest thing we have to a Latino,” Lopez says. “Everybody wants

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MARCH/APRIL 2013 63 VIDEO LIBRARIAN to see his birth certificate, too.” DVD extras include a behind-the-scenes featurette. : Don’t Start with Me HHH Recommended. Aud: P. (T. Keogh) (2012) 69 min. DVD: $19.98. eOne Entertainment (avail. from most distributors). ISBN: 1-4172-3748-1. Measuring Methods for Artists This ribald Joan Rivers standup performance from Chicago HHH1/2 aired on Showtime in November 2012. In her opening narration, (2012) 50 min. DVD: $16.95. On Air Video. PPR. the 78-year-old Rivers talks about the Second City, which she In Measuring Methods for Artists, Larry describes as “a really good test of America,” since it lies between Withers—a veteran of how-to videos on the Coasts. Wearing a black dress and a floor-sweeping jacket, topics such as drawing, framing, and perspec- Rivers is as sparkly and profane as ever, starting off with jokes tive—focuses on measuring techniques that about Michael Jackson and the Catholic Church that set the tone add “greater realism” and accuracy to a fin- for the politically incorrect evening to come. A remark about ished work. After running through necessary Mexico’s unattractive populace seems particularly mean-spirited, but she combines materials and tools (a list is also separately it with a crack about Jewish women, like herself, proving that everyone is fair game. available on the disc), Withers introduces Never one to deny an obsession with appearance, she also jokes about ugly babies and three methods: comparative measuring, Chaz Bono, whom she considers unattractive in either gender. Other targets include sight-size measuring, and triangulation. the overweight, the blind, the deaf, and the aged, although it’s clear from her phras- As he demonstrates each one, an animated ing that she also has compassion. Of course, Rivers can also be hypocritical: she and pencil moves over the image, repeating her daughter, Melissa, have benefited from , but that doesn’t stop her his actions. The approaches are useful but from taking jabs at similar beneficiaries like Snooki and the Kardashians, although involve time and effort, especially sight-size Rivers has worked a lot harder—and a lot longer—for her fame and fortune. Rivers (a painstaking but accurate way of drawing also dishes about celebrity friends and associates, including Barbra Streisand, Cher, to scale that Winters says was employed by and Kathy Griffin, and even serves up a little physical comedy as she mimes what she the great painters of the past), and the dem- would do for a multi-million dollar inheritance. Those who enjoyed the entertaining onstrations are detailed as he works out the biographical documentary Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work (VL-11/10) will surely appreciate entire example each time. As he says, “The this. Recommended. Aud: P. (K. Fennessy) more deliberate you are, the more accurate your drawing will be.” Sprinkled throughout are “try this” hints, such as how to transfer an that celebrates survival. The film’s 40-minute Some actors actually enjoy the process, while image if the paper is damaged or how to use running time prevents a fuller appreciation many others do not, and they disagree about an imaginary clock face for plotting points of each poet’s personal history and writ- whether nerves help or hinder the audition. in a drawing. Withers’ parting advice is that ing (very little screen time is afforded to Actors have a notorious need to be accepted while method is never a substitute for artistic Vietnam’s Nguyen Chi Thien, for example, and loved, but the interviewees here argue judgment, knowing skills such as the ones whose work received international acclaim that it’s still important to have a strong sense demonstrated here will make the final work and won the Rotterdam International Poetry of one’s own value and carry that into the better. A useful tool for artists, this is highly Prize while he was imprisoned by Hanoi’s room. Although a tone of resentment runs recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Gardner) communist government), but poetry lov- through many of the comments here, there ers will surely appreciate this invigorating is much helpful advice on maintaining pride, Poetry of Resilience HHH celebration of life triumphing over evil. dignity, and a sense of humor. And one actor (2011) 40 min. DVD: $89: public libraries; $250: Recommended. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall) reminds viewers that we all audition in life, colleges & universities. Women Make Movies. regardless of our professions. This is basically PPR. Showing Up HHH a “talking heads” documentary, but the talk Katja Esson’s documentary showcases a (2012) 2 discs. 83 min. DVD: $250. Firewood exhibits hard-won experience and lots of gathering of 27 poets who share the bond of Films (dist. by Fireweed, Inc.). PPR. ISBN: 978-0- wit, and should prove useful to aspiring having survived some of the most horrifying 9758596-1-9. actors. A bonus disc features 100 minutes of political atrocities of the 20th century, focus- Being a working actor requires not only extended interviews. Recommended. Aud: ing on six who lived through the Hiroshima creativity but a lot of hard work while taking C, P. (S. Rees) bombing, the Holocaust, the Cultural Revolu- body blows to the ego. For all but the most tion in China, the genocides in Rwanda and established actors, a common activity is the The Walt Disney Concert Hall Organ in the Kurdish areas of Iraq, and the Iranian audition or cattle call. In Riad Galayini and HHH Revolution. Holocaust survivor Lillian Bo- James Morrison’s documentary, Christopher (2012) 47 min. DVD: $29.99 (audio CD included). raks-Nemetz returns to her native Poland, Meloni (Law & Order SVU), Kristin Chenoweth Kultur International Films (avail. from most where she recalls the people and places in her (Wicked), Nathan Lane, Janeane Garofalo, the distributors). ISBN: 978-0-7697-5001-9. harrowing escape from the Warsaw Ghetto, late Pat Hingle, and many others familiar to One of the most unusual aspects of the while Hiroshima survivor Yasuhiko Shige- movie and television audiences explain what Los Angeles Philharmonic’s striking head- moto wanders through the modern city in it’s like to audition for a part. The audition is quarters is its concert organ, which was search of reminders of the 1945 annihilation. usually a waiting game, followed by a brief, designed—as was the whole building—by A few of the subjects physically escaped the nerve-wracking run-through in front of architect Frank Gehry in collaboration with full brunt of their national tragedies while playwrights, producers, directors, or casting sound consultant Manuel Rosales. The in- they were small children, but came of age in directors, any of whom can be talking on the strument sports a façade very different from an emotionally challenging exile that frayed phone, texting, or eating while supposedly other organs in that some of the metal pipes their family structure and left them feeling watching the actor. Staying fresh while wait- push out from the console in a spray pat- like permanent strangers in their adopted ing, or dealing with distractions—plus coping tern, accentuated by larger, curved wooden countries. Despite their geographical dif- with real or perceived lack of producer empa- ones. Constructed according to Gehry and ferences, each individual expresses a cogent thy—is always a challenge. Each actor has a Rosales’ specifications by German organ observation of the worst of human nature different take on dealing with other actors in builder Caspar Glatter-Götz, the organ was while demonstrating an artistic strength the same room competing for the same part. installed while the building was still under

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 64 MARCH/APRIL 2013 construction and had its public debut in of these aged, infirm pensioners still accept Congress (ANC) in order to mount nonvio- September 2004. Raoul Peter Mongilardi’s the old party line and look upon Stalin as a lent resistance, and the government’s forceful documentary offers a historical sketch of great leader who fended off the Nazi threat; response. The following five segments focus the organ’s creation and appreciation of its but others view the government account as a on particular aspects of the anti-apartheid capabilities, supplemented by interviews fraud designed to conceal the ineptitude—or campaign, including the efforts of exiled with Glatter-Götz and Gehry (the latter’s sheer callousness—of the Soviet regime in ANC leader Oliver Tambo to secure Western conducted by phone), observations from failing to provide needed assistance to the support; the impact of international sports musicians who have played the instrument, trapped population. Archival footage of life in boycotts, economic sanctions, and corporate footage of the construction of the organ in Leningrad during the blockade coupled with divestitures; the growth of grassroots efforts Germany and subsequent installation in L.A., a recitation of statistics about civilian deaths in other countries to urge their governments and brief musical excerpts. An accompanying and instances of cannibalism are powerful to action; and the rise of a movement de- CD compiles 13 short pieces—from Bach to enough, but even these are trumped by the voted to violent resistance within the ANC transcriptions of Tchaikovsky, Debussy, and interviewees’ powerful recollections, such itself. The series returns to a chronological Prokofiev—played by a half dozen organ- as the wrenching account that one woman approach in the final chapter, “Free at Last,” ists. Presented in Dolby Digital stereo, this gives of her sister’s and mother’s starvation, which covers the end of the apartheid regime off-the-beaten-path music documentary is and what she herself did to survive. Filled (while also detailing how Nelson Mandela recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek) with haunting images, 900 Days offers a was transformed from a fairly obscure figure grim reminder of the suffering that humans into the face of the movement). Interspersed are capable of inflicting on one another and throughout the narrative are recollections by HISTORY & CURRENT EVENTS of the gross distortion that governments will some of those who helped to shape events. indulge in to protect their image. Highly Presenting a comprehensive, passionate over- recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek) view of a long struggle, Have You Heard From 900 Days HHH1/2 Johannesburg is a potent portrait of an im- (2011) 77 min. DVD: $398. Icarus Films. PPR. Have You Heard from Johannesburg: The portant part of 20th-century history. Highly Jessica Gorter’s piercing documentary Complete Series HHH1/2 recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek) about the German siege of Leningrad—last- (2010) 7 discs. 527 min. DVD: $149: individuals; ing from 1941 to 1943 and claiming a million $345: public libraries & high schools; $695: colleges Henry Clay and the Struggle for the lives—opens with a sequence showcasing & universities. Clarity Films. PPR. Union: The Missouri Compromise of the official glorification of the city’s staunch Broadcast on PBS, Connie Field’s seven- resistance in the face of unimaginable part documentary is an extremely ambi- 1820 to the Tariff Compromise of 1833 deprivation, presenting it as a nationalist tious depiction of the rise and fall of South HHH1/2 triumph. Russian President Dmitri Medvedev Africa’s apartheid policy, drawing on news (2011) 20 min. DVD: $69.95. TMW Media Group. (now prime minister) praises survivors of the footage and other archival material to cel- PPR. ordeal as heroes of the fatherland while they ebrate both local activists who helped bring This second installment in a series about march past him accompanied by a display of down the system of racial oppression, and Henry Clay—the 19th-century Kentucky military might. But that footage—along with supporters abroad who kept the pressure senator, secretary of state, three-time-presi- clips from a visit by schoolboys to a museum on the reigning white regime. The initial dential candidate, and political idol of a commemorating the tragedy—serves as a episode, “Road to Resistance,” recounts the young Abraham Lincoln—underscores Clay’s mere backdrop to a series of interviews with establishment of apartheid following World essential role in keeping the United States people who experienced the horrors. Some War II, the creation of the African National from falling into civil war earlier through his formulation of the 1820 Missouri Com- promise and the 1833 Tariff Compromise. Born Fighting: How the Scots-Irish Shaped America Fast-paced and brief, the documentary deftly HHH portrays the rising tensions between North (2010) 92 min. DVD: $19.98. BFS Entertainment & Multimedia (avail. and South over the nation’s westward expan- from most distributors). sion. Supplemented by period photographs Hosted by James Webb, former U.S. Senator and Secretary of and art, dramatic re-enactments, maps, and the Navy, Born Fighting (based on Webb’s titular 2004 book) traces footage of the Old Senate Chamber in the the emergence of the Scots-Irish over centuries, recounting their U.S. Capitol, writer-host Kent Masterson spirit of independence all the way from Scotland’s 13th-century Brown presents a synopsis of the first crisis, rebellion against the British to their important role in making centered on Missouri’s application to join America a sovereign nation. This two-part production explains the Union as a slave-owning state, which how Scotland’s cultural and political identity emerged after the would throw congressional control to the country was cut off from Roman-occupied Britain by Hadrian’s Wall in 122 A.D. As South. Clay was deeply influential in forging centuries passed, Scotland not only sought and fought for self-rule, but also forged a a complicated agreement in 1820 that no bond with Ireland, with whom it shared Celtic ties. Two-way migration and trade be- one liked but still kept the country together. came commonplace, but when King James encouraged and supported the relocation of In 1833, South Carolina refused to collect Protestant Scots to Ireland’s largely Catholic Ulster, was set for years of conflict federal tariffs on imported goods, prompt- and tragedy, as dispossession, violence, and reprisals between the two groups became ing President Andrew Jackson to threaten the norm. The attempt by King Charles in the 17th century to impose a new church the state with charges of treason. Again, hierarchy on all Scots led to a massacre in 1641, and continuing repression motivated Clay (who vigorously supported tariffs as many Scots-Irish to migrate to the New World. The second half of Born Fighting focuses a means to develop America’s economic on the Scots-Irish influence on America’s revolutionary spirit in the late-18th century, infrastructure) had a major hand in finding and on the new nation’s military, government, and culture. Along the way, several a solution. Other topics touched on include descendants of early immigrants are highlighted, ranging from Andrew Jackson to Clay’s political ambitions and his work with Neil Armstrong. Recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (T. Keogh) other senators—especially Daniel Webster and John C. Calhoun—in trying to keep

MARCH/APRIL 2013 65 VIDEO LIBRARIAN the Union together. The other titles in the the rubric of laissez-faire capitalism. Solomon as “big bugs” who drink, swear, and gamble, Henry Clay and the Struggle for the Union employs primitive claymation/stop-motion in contrast to the author, who longs to do series are: The Formation of the Union and animation to humorously depict the ways his duty then return to his family. Between its Early Challenges and The Compromise of in which state-controlled resources were battles he notes the common humanity of 1850 to the Civil War. Highly recommended. usurped by members of the old nomenklatura, soldiers from both sides, who sometimes ex- Aud: J, H, P. (T. Keogh) and also interviews a representative sample of change banter across the lines, later followed the new Romanian millionaire’s club, as well by deadly gunfire. Emeline recounts home Here I Learned to Love HHH1/2 as ordinary citizens who have benefited little, front news, including children’s illnesses, (2011) 54 min. In Hebrew w/English subtitles. if at all, from the change to democracy and local disdain for “Copperheads” who op- DVD: $29.90: individuals; $115: public libraries; free enterprise. Of course, these developments pose the war effort, and fears about rumored $300: colleges & universities. Ruth Diskin Films are hardly unique to Romania: one can see Confederate guerrilla raids into Iowa. The (web: www.ruthfilms.com). PPR. this crude form of crony capitalism operating human toll includes the death of Jacob’s Israeli filmmaker Avi Angel helmed this in many regions of the old Soviet empire, brother in combat, as well as Jacob’s own moving documentary about septuagenarian including Russia itself, and in China, as well. wounding and debilitation from malaria, brothers Avner Kerem and Itzik Weinberg, But Romania serves as a telling paradigm of which would eventually shorten his life after who retrace their childhood in Holocaust- what has happened in numerous places after the war. In addition to the war’s drama, the ravaged Europe and uncover the heroic communism’s collapse, and Solomon’s ap- documentary also chronicles the discovery stories of three women responsible for saving proach—a mixture of seriousness and humor of Jacob’s letters and a time-consuming their lives. The first was their mother, who similar to that of Michael Moore or Morgan search for Emeline’s correspondence, which managed to spirit the boys out of harm’s Spurlock—makes for a film that is both together present a vivid picture of the war way as their family was being deported in enlightening and engaging. Recommended. as being a nation’s “baptism of blood” while 1942 from Krakow, Poland, to the Nazi death Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek) also bringing misery to civilians caught in camps—Avner was three years old and Itzik the crossfire. Combining readings, dramatic was four; they would never see their parents Love and Valor HHH re-enactments, and comments from Lar- again. The second woman was their aunt (2012) 85 min. DVD: $24.99 ($54.95 w/PPR). imer—a family descendant—who also visits Malka, who was given the responsibility of PBS Video. Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-1-60883- the graves of some of the people mentioned hiding the boys and, later, escaped from the 771-7. in the letters, this eloquent documentary Nazis with them into Hungary. Two years The American Civil War was defined by will make a fine addition to most Civil War later, the boys were passengers on a refugee big issues, events, and battles, but what often history collections. Recommended. Aud: H, train that was supposed to head to safety brings a sense of rich emotion and enduring C, P. (S. Rees) in Spain, but the train was stopped by the interest to this tragic conflict are the small Nazis and the passengers were sent to Bergen- personal stories. Narrated by , Mankind: The Story of All of Us HH1/2 Belsen. Here, a third woman, a 20-year-old filmmaker Charles F. Larimer’s PBS-aired (2011) 3 discs. 552 min. DVD: $29.99, Blu-ray: Hungarian named Naomi Mayer, unofficially documentary is based on the Civil War let- $39.99. A&E Home Video (avail. from most adopted the brothers and served as their ters of Jacob and Emeline Ritner, a married distributors). PPR. protector until the concentration camp’s lib- couple who ran a family farm in Iowa. While History, as the old History Channel is now eration. Avner and Itzik conduct their search Emeline kept the farm and her brood of chil- known, made a splash with the miniseries through a series of cramped apartments and dren together, Jacob was a Union officer who America: The Story of Us (VL-11/10), a slick but isolated farms with a mix of solemnity and served in the Vicksburg Campaign, the Battle superficial overview of North America, and wonder, occasionally pausing to display a of Lookout Mountain near Chattanooga, TN, the U.S. in particular, from the founding of wry sense of humor (they “toast” each other and marched with Sherman on Atlanta and Jamestown in the early 17th century to the with pill bottles). Here I Learned to Love is a Savannah. Writing to his “dear little wife at 2008 election. Now it offers a 12-part prequel moving and ultimately heartbreaking trib- home,” Jacob describes other Union officers of sorts that reaches back to the evolution ute to bravery and perseverance under the most horrifying conditions imaginable. An excellent addition to the canon of Holocaust- Never Give Up! HHH1/2 related nonfiction filmmaking, this is highly (2012) 28 min. DVD: Free. Kesa Kivel (avail. from www.nevergiveupfilm. recommended. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall) org). PPR. Writer-director Kesa Kivel’s ambitious interactive school project Kapitalism: Our Secret Recipe HHH on the Underground Railroad is chronicled in this program featur- (2010) 55 min. DVD: $390. Icarus Films. PPR. ing middle school girls involved with the Santa Monica YWCA, Romanian expatriate Alexandru Solo- along with staff, and other volunteers. At the center is Kivel’s mon’s documentary offers a satirical look at portrayal of the titular story concerning 13-year-old Ama, who how miserably his homeland has fared in the is stolen from her family in Africa in 1847, endures a treacherous post-communist era. Manipulating archival voyage on the Middle Passage, suffers life as a slave, and finally footage, Solomon frames his film around a escapes to Canada along with love interest Ben. The participat- cheeky premise in which the ghostly pres- ing girls travel along Ama’s path: wearing wristbands to signify chains, confined in a ence of dictator Nicolae Ceauçescu, who was small room to represent the ship, being yelled at, listening to a slave-owner talk about executed in 1989, returns to his country after being respected by his community, and moving along with an Underground Railroad two decades. Although horrified by the sub- conductor—all the way to the homes of abolitionists “Lucretia Mott” and “Catherine sequent westernization, Ceauçescu is grimly (Dickes) Harris.” Combining archival photos, drawings, music, and sound effects to pleased that former members of his regime back up the historical information (including disturbing aspects such as sexual abuse), have prospered from using their positions at the program also features a “Part 2” discussion that touches on contemporary diversity the time of the revolution as springboards issues, and includes a behind-the-scenes look at focus group meetings. Sure to spur con- to wealth and power in a system that has versation, this interesting and insightful title—available for free, with a downloadable continued (and even worsened) the old curriculum—is highly recommended. Aud: J, H, P. (J. Williams-Wood) divide between haves and have-nots under

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 66 MARCH/APRIL 2013 of the species, chronicles the adoption of farming and the domestication of animals, Putin’s Kiss HHH and continues with humankind’s story into (2012) 85 min. In Russian w/English subtitles. DVD: $29.95 (avail. from the 21st century. Mankind mixes narration by most distributors), $249 w/PPR (avail. from www.kinolorberedu.com). , dramatic re-enactments, loads of Kino Lorber. CGI work, and occasional observations from Danish documentarian Lise Birk Pedersen examines a slice of academics (most notably, Henry Louis Gates contemporary Russian politics from the perspective of a young Jr.) and celebrities such as chef Anthony Bour- woman caught up in the rise of a popular youth movement dain and newscaster Brian Williams. Not sur- called Nashi that is essentially a personality cult for long-term prisingly, the coverage is extremely selective ruler Vladimir Putin. The narrative focuses on Nashi loyalist and (and despite the all-embracing though oddly media star Masha Drokova, a well-spoken 19-year-old who affirms patriarchal title, largely Eurocentric), but an her admiration for Putin and for Nashi’s positive achievements attempt is made to provide a guiding thread in putting post-Soviet society in order (the title comes from Masha’s receiving a kiss by emphasizing science and technology as from Putin during a photo op). But Nashi also sports a record of less-than-admirable the agents of change. Unfortunately, that is activities—demonizing the Russian leader’s opponents, burning books, stifling open mostly expressed through an overemphasis debate, and engaging in Jackass-level hoodlum acts, including creating flash mobs and on war, ostensibly because of the often re- engaging in public defecation. When Masha begins to befriend some of Putin’s critics, ciprocal effect between military matters and including a group of journalists—an act unthinkable among Nashi youth—she becomes technical innovation, but actually because alarmed and disenchanted with the organization’s bullying tactics. Pedersen’s own depictions of battles make for more visceral biases are evident: Nashi bigwig Anton Smirnov is lit like a movie villain (alas, he also visual excitement. Still, while any historian tends to talk like one), and viewers need freeze-frame to read the Nashi response to the would rightly complain about omissions and film’s accusations—a statement that flashes by after the closing credits. Despite obvious oversimplification, Mankind can still serve as emotional manipulation and staged-looking scenes, however, Putin’s Kiss humanizes a spur to further study in classrooms (espe- and highlights important issues in today’s Russia. DVD extras include a stills gallery. cially since it moves through the centuries Recommended. Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady) quickly enough to hold students’ interest) or on the part of general viewers. DVD extras include additional footage. A strong optional ambition and ability to escape from male segments on popular activities including purchase. Aud: J, H, C, P. (F. Swietek) domination and claim their right to the whale watching, snorkeling, and windsurf- crown. DVD extras include a bio of Castor, ing. Sure to appeal to armchair travelers She-Wolves: England’s Early Queens and an accompanying viewer’s guide. Rec- and those planning trips, this is highly HHH ommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek) recommended. Aud: P. (C. Block) (2012) 185 min. DVD: $34.99. Athena (avail. from most distributors). Closed captioned. ISBN: Travel with Kids: Wales HHH 978-1-59828-767-7. TRAVEL & GEOGRAPHY (2012) 84 min. DVD: $14.95. Equator Creative In this three-part BBC-aired series, Media (dist. by Janson Media). ISBN: 978-1-56839- Cambridge historian Helen Castor presents 431-4. biographical sketches—based on her own Discoveries…America’s National Parks: In this entry from the Travel with Kids se- 2010 book, She-Wolves—of seven women Hawaii HHH1/2 ries, the Roberts family of four—who travel who played notable roles in England’s (2012) 54 min. DVD or Blu-ray: $24.95. Bennett- the globe in kid-friendly fashion—visit political affairs during the medieval and Watt HD Productions. PPR. ISBN: 978-1-60490- Wales in three near-half-hour episodes, early modern periods. The first episode 163-4 (dvd). starting with “Cardiff & Brecon Beacons,” focuses on Matilda, daughter of William This new entry in Jim and Kelly Watt’s in which the parents and two young boys the Conqueror’s son King Henry I, whose visually stunning series highlights the 50th take in the city of Cardiff and look at the attempt to succeed her father led to nearly state, with eye-popping vistas of volcanic nearby Brecon Beacons mountain range. two decades of civil war; and Eleanor of landscapes, subtropical rainforests, stun- As always, the program serves up plenty of Aquitaine, wife of Matilda’s son, King Hen- ning beaches, and other sites taking a star- helpful tips (adopt local time as quickly as ry II, who served as virtual regent during ring role. Kilauea is the main attraction at possible to avoid jet lag, etc.) and strategies her own son Richard’s absence on crusade. Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, for sightseeing with youngsters (“let’s take a The second segment looks at Isabella, wife where its eruptions over the past 30 years tour of Cardiff Bay on an awesome boat!”). of King Edward II, who conspired with a have added about 500 acres of land to the Castles are a huge draw for kids, thanks to lover to depose her husband and effectively southern shore (the spewing of red-hot their seemingly endless stone passageways rule the realm herself; and Margaret of magma in high-definition is a powerful and steps, challenging both the legs and Anjou, wife of King Henry VI, who took image). A stop at the visitor’s center finds the imagination (one mansion on castle charge of the Lancastrian cause in the Wars people exploring 3D displays that illustrate grounds here is considered more mod- of the Roses. The third installment moves to the topography both above and below ern—having been constructed in the 18th the Tudor period, covering Lady Jane Grey, the water. On Maui, the film crew goes to century!). Many of the historic buildings whose family attempted to impose Haleakala National Park (a favorite spot also feature mini-museums with artifacts, her on the kingdom following the untimely for tourists to catch the ) and then including swords and knight’s armor (and death of King Henry VIII’s son, Edward VI; travels up the coast-hugging Hana High- some venues provide a “scavenger hunt” and Henry’s daughters Mary and Elizabeth, way—with its hundreds of curves, 50-plus sheet for kids to find interesting features). who became the first women to ascend bridges, and beautiful waterfalls—to see the Also including segments devoted to “Pem- to the English throne in their own right gravesite of aviator Charles Lindbergh. Also brokeshire & King Arthur” and “Snowdonia without substantial opposition. Nicely il- on the itinerary is the sobering tribute to & Llangollen,” DVD extras include a trip lustrated with artwork and modern location fallen American servicemen and civilians at planner, a “Wales at Home” section (with footage, the series certainly proves what a the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor recipes and crafts), and a list of resources. long, arduous struggle it was for women of on Oahu. Rounding out the program are Recommended. Aud: P. (C. Block)

MARCH/APRIL 2013 67 VIDEO LIBRARIAN and Paul Reubens seems almost redundant. hit Enter the Dragon would premiere). Extras BIOGRAPHY The abundant DVD extras include audio include a series of training films showing commentary by Berkeley and White, deleted Lee’s famous private martial arts lessons scenes, a slideshow of White’s artwork, and (clients included James Coburn and Steve Beauty Is Embarrassing HHH1/2 a music video. Highly recommended. Aud: McQueen), with commentary from Linda; as (2012) 88 min. DVD: $29.95. Docurama (avail. C, P. (M. Sandlin) well as a few featurettes, including one with from most distributors). ISBN: 1-4229-2290-1. footage of Lee auditioning for a TV role. Tennessee-born cartoonist and artist I Am Bruce Lee HHH Recommended. Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady) Wayne White is profiled in this documentary (2012) 94 min. DVD: $19.95, Blu-ray: $26.98. from director Neil Berkeley. White is probably Shout! Factory (avail. from most distributors). I’m Carolyn Parker: The Good, the Mad, best known for his Emmy Award-winning set The family of martial-arts-action movie and the Beautiful HHH1/2 design on the Saturday-morning psychedelic legend Bruce Lee produced this made-for- (2012) 90 min. DVD: $24.99 ($54.95 w/PPR). rampage that was Pee Wee’s Playhouse, which TV nonfiction portrait claiming to be “the PBS Video. Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-1-60883- ran from 1986-1990. White’s goofy but in- first film to truly tell Bruce Lee’s story in his 767-0. trospective personality dominates here—an own words.” An eclectic group of insiders/ In New Orleans’ Lower Ninth Ward, easygoing southern charm that mixes swim- admirers—daughter Shannon, basketball’s respected community activist and larger- mingly with bohemian hippie defiance and Kobe Bryant, musician Taboo, actor Mickey than-life character Carolyn Parker is known absurdist sense of humor, all of which is Rourke, sitcom regular Ed O’Neill (who as a “lady of action.” When her house and reflected in his artwork. Although White earned a black belt), and fighters Ray neighborhood were ravaged by Hurricane enjoyed significant early success in music Mancini, Gina Carano, and Gene LeBell, Katrina, Parker wouldn’t leave or give in. videos for rock stars like Peter Gabriel and among others—expound upon Lee’s career Director Jonathan Demme follows Parker Smashing Pumpkins—and had a crazy stint and appeal and discuss why he became a in her five-year struggle to move out of her in Hollywood as an overworked art director cross-cultural, pan-disciplinary icon, on a FEMA supplied trailer, back to the home she and animator—his real quest is to fulfill his par with Muhammad Ali (aggrieved blacks loves. At the same time, she fights to keep her dream job of sitting alone in a room mak- in the 1970s especially seemed to relate local Catholic church from closing its doors. ing art. With the help of big-time designer to Lee’s ethnic-outsider status). Lee’s own The sixtysomething Parker is a veteran of Todd Oldham, White manages—late in his voice is also heard at length, via a famous past civil rights protests against segregation. career—to achieve conceptual prominence interview that the star did for Hong Kong Retired from her position as a cook and in the usually humorless, antiseptic art TV. Director Pete McCormack’s mytholo- crippled by knee problems, Parker speaks world. Using crappy thrift-store landscape gized approach illustrates Lee’s life with out against government bureaucrats, and art as a backdrop for his 3D “word paintings,” material drawn from family archives, as lobbies for a community plagued by theft, White makes a name for himself with art that well as movie-role clips, blurring the line vandalism, and fly-by-night contractors. combines his ribald barroom sense of humor between celluloid hero and real man. Lee’s Faith, humor, and a lot of good down-home and real talent for illustration. White himself elegant widow, Linda (in some ways the real New Orleans cooking sustain Parker and her is such a force of nature that the gushing scene-stealer here), sensibly denies any con- grown daughter. Demme periodically drops talking-head praise here from luminaries spiracies related to her husband’s sudden, in on Parker, chronicling her victories and like Matt Groening, Mark Mothersbaugh, shocking 1973 death (a month before his setbacks, which include a health crisis fol- lowing knee surgery. Parker is a colorful and eloquent subject, surrounded by an interest- Ai Weiwei: Never Sorry HHH ing assortment of neighborhood friends in (2011) 91 min. DVD: $24.98, Blu-ray: $29.98. MPI Home Video (avail. this PBS-aired documentary that reminds us from most distributors). ISBN: 0-7886-1605-6 (dvd), 0-7886-1634-X (blu- ray). how true heroes are often the unrecognized people around us. DVD extras include an in- The oversized personality of unconventional Chinese artist and terview with Demme. Highly recommended. dissident Ai Weiwei is at the center of Alison Klayman’s somewhat Aud: C, P. (S. Rees) disjointed but ultimately engrossing documentary. While not ignoring his creative endeavors and domestic relationships, the film focuses on Weiwei’s Internet-based campaign for enhanced : Not Dead Yet HHH democracy and individual freedom—often conveyed via playful (2012) 87 min. DVD: $26.95. Kino Lorber (avail. means, as Klayman eschews a purely chronological approach. from most distributors). Weiwei is introduced as someone whose international renown in the art world is matched In this moving profile, filmmaker Jesse by a cheekily subversive streak: he designed Beijing’s striking “Bird’s Nest” stadium for Vile profiles Bay Area musician Jason Beck- the 2008 Olympics but then denounced the games as a propaganda exercise, and he er, whose career would ultimately follow has spearheaded a drive to disclose the identities of children killed when an earthquake two paths. Becker’s mother, Pat, recalls that leveled their poorly constructed schools. Only later does the filmmaker backtrack to Jason was born in a rush: eager to walk and discuss Weiwei’s father, a poet victimized during Mao’s Cultural Revolution, as well as talk, and frustrated when he couldn’t do Weiwei’s decade-long residency in the U.S., his return to China following the Tianan- what he wanted. From an early age, Becker men Square incident, and his central role in assembling an underground movement of set his sights on playing guitar. Instead Chinese artists to challenge the Communist party line. Klayman taps Ai’s own treasury of music school, he studied the records of of video footage and stills (including excerpts from his activist documentaries) and Eric Clapton and Van Halen (home-movie includes interviews with him and his family and colleagues, as well as scenes of his footage reveals a physical, theatrical player). altercations with authorities. Although it could have been better organized, Never Sorry After Mike Varney of presents a revealing portrait of a courageous provocateur with a gift for slyly ridiculing heard young Becker’s demo, he encouraged the communist regime and its drive to undermine China’s traditions in the name of the musician to join forces with Marty progress. DVD extras include audio commentary by Klayman, deleted scenes, and ad- Friedman, and the pair formed Cacophony. ditional interviews. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek) Becker graduated from high school early and hit the road, but wasn’t interested in

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 68 MARCH/APRIL 2013 Joe Frazier: When the Smoke Clears HHH1/2 (2012) 71 min. DVD: $19.99. SRO (dist. by Kultur International Films). ISBN: 978-0-7697-9249-1. Filmmaker Mike Todd’s Joe Frazier: When the Smoke Clears is a biographical portrait of the legendary heavyweight boxer and former champion, made shortly before Frazier died of cancer in late 2011. Todd follows Frazier to London, where the latter talks about his life and times, achievements and disappointments, sharing along the way his wisdom not only about boxing but also about community, relationships, and the perspective of time on one’s view of what is important. While most of the documentary concerns the past—Frazier’s childhood in racist South Carolina, his family’s move to Philadelphia, a hardscrabble youth alleviated somewhat by his passion for fighting, his amazing career in the ring—all roads eventually lead to Joe Frazier’s Gym, which is in a tough, impoverished, contemporary Philly neighborhood. Here, an ailing Frazier reflects on the gym as an institution and community anchor, giving young people a sense of accomplishment and direction. Frazier’s son Marvis runs the gym, gives inspirational talks, visits (in his capacity as a minister) young men in prison, and holds up his father as an underappreciated catalyst for positive change. Other interviewees include old friends and family members, along with boxing greats $39.95 (without PPR) Larry Holmes and George Foreman, and various journalists, managers, and trainers. UPC:6-82086-70652-8, ISBN:978-1-933724-38-6 Some of these witnesses also reflect on the complications of Frazier’s legendary rivalry with Muhammad Ali, especially the unfortunate perception that Frazier was not only apolitical (in contrast to Ali), but even a tool of the white establishment. With all of that behind him, the late Frazier here just seems to be a good man trying to make the world a better place. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh) partying—only playing—making such hard and “almost lost myself.” Growing up, a name for himself that Mama C had no contact with white people came calling. After Cacophony broke up at until her junior high years, when she was the tail end of the ’80s and Steve Vai left bused to a school outside her black neighbor- Roth’s band, Becker stepped in, but then hood. Her experiences drew her to the Black he developed a limp, which led to a diag- Panther Party, where she met Brother Pete. nosis of ALS, a degenerative nerve disorder; Although the pair initially clashed—due doctors gave him two to five years to live. to Mama C’s outspoken nature—irritation Becker played on one record before telling gave way to affection, leading to a marriage Roth, and then quit the business, eventu- that continues to this day. When the couple ally losing all mobility, but then associates left the country in 1969, they first lived in developed programs that would allow Algiers with Eldridge Cleaver and other party $24.95 (without PPR) Becker to compose again, thus leading to a exiles before settling in Tanzania, where UPC:6-82086-70672-6, ISBN:978-1-933724-40-9 whole new life. Today, Becker attributes his they felt at home and established the United longevity to his caretakers and his parents, African Alliance Community Center, which who never gave up on him, although they houses orphans and provides other services. A worry about a future in which they may woman of many talents, Mama C talks about not be around to help. DVD extras include her art, poetry, music, and perspectives on archival performances by Becker, and race and culture. DVD extras include three extended interviews with Friedman, Vai, poems read by Mama C. Recommended. Aud: and Joe Satriani. A powerful and inspiring C, P. (K. Fennessy) portrait of a musical artist, this is recom- mended. Aud: C, P. (K. Fennessy) A Man’s Story HH1/2 Mama C: Urban Warrior in the African (2012) 98 min. DVD: $19.99. Virgil Films (avail. HHH from most distributors). Bush Ozwald Boateng has enjoyed a heady rise (2012) 54 min. DVD: $80: high schools & public libraries; $250: colleges & universities. Perennial to the top of the fashion world. The son Films (dist. by New Day Films). PPR. ISBN: 978-1- of Ghanian immigrants, Boateng owned 57448-111-2. his own shop at an early age on London’s Filmmaker Joanne Hershfield’sMama C famed Savile Row, was creative director of serves up a portrait of Charlotte Hill O’Neal. menswear at Givenchy, and recently has been the dresser to top Hollywood male $24.95 (without PPR) An author, artist, and activist, Mama C grew UPC 6-82086-70662-7, ISBN 978-1-933724-39-3 up in Kansas City during the pre-civil rights stars including Will Smith and Jamie Foxx. era, moving to Africa in 1971. She recalls that He’s been called the fashion world’s “best while she hoped to fit in as an African rather kept secret,” a man who designs clothes to than as an African-American, she tried too “make you look better than you really are.”

MARCH/APRIL 2013 69 VIDEO LIBRARIAN larger office buildings and tenements that offered little escape from poverty, disease, Photographic Memory HHH1/2 and squalor. In Europe, parks and open areas (2012) 87 min. DVD: $27.95. First Run Features (avail. from most were generally reserved for the wealthy or distributors). royalty, off limits to commoners. Frederick In his first documentary since 2008’sIn Paraguay, renowned Law Olmsted had a different vision for a American docu-memoirist and Harvard professor Ross McElwee young, growing America. Co-directed by crosses the Atlantic to muse upon life, family, fatherhood, and Rebecca Messner, George DeGolian, and remembrances of time past. Although McElwee’s son Adrian Michael White, this PBS-aired documentary has an interest in filmmaking (mostly extreme-sports stunts via examines the life and legacy of Olmsted, a social media), teenage rebellion has left the once-personable boy visionary best known for spearheading the sulky and argumentative. McElwee recalls his own young man- creation of New York City’s Central Park, a hood as a vagabond photographer in 1970s France, a path that “people’s garden” designed to provide an dismayed his surgeon father. Here, McElwee decides to revisit the village in Brittany escape from the “bustle and jar” of the city. where he apprenticed with a - and philosophy-loving French shutterbug (who fired Olmsted envisioned a large, rocky, swampy him under mysterious circumstances), while also seeking to reunite with a former area then occupied by squatters being re- lover—captivating in photos—whose surname he doesn’t even remember. Viewers placed by what would become Central Park. who have followed McElwee’s canon throughout the years may be disappointed that Olmsted tried to counteract the monotonous he has abandoned his customary 16mm camera for more easily portable digital-video regularity of city streets by introducing scenic and laptop equipment (although he still loves the tactile quality of film and chemical variety, open meadows, and winding paths photography—and mistrusts memory-chip cards). But aside from this minor change, through the park. Fighting exhaustion and Photographic Memory is another compelling personal odyssey from one of nonfiction periodic bouts of depression, Olmsted over- cinema’s most self-effacing and thoughtful name-brand stars. Highly recommended. came city penny pinching and patronage, Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady) employing hundreds of workers and moving millions of cubic feet of soil in the process. The documentary also explores other works, Directed by Varon Bonicos, A Man’s Story trademark shtick with extended nostalgic ranging from Brooklyn’s Prospect Park to follows Boateng’s hectic career from 1998 recollections of his peak years, and also fol- sites in Buffalo, New York, Chicago, and to 2010, enjoying seemingly unrestricted lowing him to the Cannes Film Festival for a Boston (famed for its “Emerald Necklace” access to the celebrated stylist, designer, confirmation of the French love affair with system of interconnected parks that grew and and tailor. Boateng’s clothes promise an the comic. Many classic Lewis clips from his strengthened neighborhoods), as well as the “elegance that comes from within,” and 10-year partnership with Dean Martin and massive Biltmore Estate, still a major North the man himself comes off as supremely his own solo films are interwoven, along Carolina tourist attraction. Although Olm- confident, whether supervising a shoot with consideration of his work as a direc- sted eventually succumbed to dementia and in China or planning a landmark fashion tor—including insights into his creation depression—dying in 1903—his descendants show in Ghana. Boateng seems to be living of video assist technology that became continued his firm until 1979. Kevin Kline everyone’s fantasy life, with a beautiful wife standard equipment in film production. provides the voice of Olmsted in this excel- and children, jetting around the world, and A number of A-list Lewis fans—including lent documentary that salutes a pioneer who even receiving an award from Queen Eliza- Quentin Tarantino, Steven Spielberg, Jerry helped change the face of America. Highly beth II at Buckingham Palace. However, , Billy Crystal, Carol Burnett, and recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (S. Rees) the portrait here is not always flattering: Eddie Murphy—also offer glowing praise. Boateng frequently comes across as short Ultimately, however, this is hagiography, Proof Through the Night HHH1/2 tempered and unhappy, and in the end, his accentuating the positive while completely (2012) 56 min. DVD: $19.99. Cartesian marriage falls apart in acrimony, although eliminating the negative: viewers will find Coordinates (dist. by Vision Video). he scores a triumph in 2010, staging the no explanation of the circumstances that Most Americans know that “The Star Span- largest men’s fashion show in London’s resulted in the Martin and Lewis break-up gled Banner” was written by Francis Scott history. Surprisingly, however, the film in 1956 or the subsequent years of icy si- Key, but few are aware of the circumstances provides few insights into the wellsprings lence between the former partners, nor is under which Key penned what would eventu- of Boateng’s talent, his working methods, there any look at Lewis’s intriguing flops, ally become America’s national anthem, and or his contributions to fashion. Moreover, including his expensive 1963 TV variety even fewer know much about Key’s larger the sound is frequently muffled, making show (cancelled after 13 episodes) and his historical place, later accomplishments, or some dialogue hard to hear. Fashion and still unfinished Holocaust dramaThe Day the substance of his character. Born on his design schools will likely be interested in the Clown Cried. Nonetheless, anyone who parents’ Maryland plantation, Key became a this profile, but it is optional elsewhere. can still crack a laugh over the 50 millionth lawyer, poet, and man of calm and capable Aud: C, P. (S. Rees) cry of “Hey, laaaady!” will definitely appre- influence. The facts surrounding the creation ciate this celebration of Lewis and his dis- of “The Star Spangled Banner” are rivet- Method to the Madness of tinctive brand of comedy. Recommended. ing, especially considering the enormous HHH Aud: P. (P. Hall) personal risk that Key took in approaching (2011) 116 min. DVD: $19.98. Anchor Bay British troops—who had already burned Entertainment (avail. from most distributors). Olmsted and America’s Urban Parks down Washington, D.C., in September 1814 Closed captioned. HHH1/2 and were advancing on Baltimore—to negoti- Originally broadcast on Encore in 2011, (2010) 57 min. DVD: $24.99 ($54.95 w/PPR). ate a prisoner release. Proof Through the Night Gregg Barson’s documentary offers an all- PBS Video. Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-1-60883- brings to life the long night that birthed our smiles tribute to the career of zany funny- 769-4. national anthem, as Key—imprisoned aboard man Jerry Lewis, filming the 85-year-old In early 19th-century America, big cities a British vessel—helplessly watched the battle Lewis performing in , where were rapidly filling up with mills and sweat- between shipboard Brits and Americans he mixes a watered-down version of his shops, with open spaces giving way to ever stationed at Fort McHenry. But that story

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 70 MARCH/APRIL 2013 Semper Fi: Always Faithful (Passion River, 76 min., DVD: $29.99 [$295 w/PPR ALA-VRT Notable Videos 2013 from Bullfrog Films]). Filmmakers Rachel Libert and Tony Hardmon’s documen- The American Library Association (ALA) Madsen’s documentary raises questions tary follows the determined quest of U.S. Video Round Table Notable Videos for about a permanent nuclear waste storage Marine Master Sergeant Jerry Ensminger, Adults Committee has compiled its 2013 facility being constructed in Finland, who—after his daughter died from a rare list of Notable Videos for Adults, a list asking how it might affect people in an form of leukemia—discovered cancer of 15 outstanding programs released on environmental future that we cannot clusters among other personnel stationed video within the past two years. Unless predict. at Camp Lejeune, NC. (VL-9/12) otherwise noted, titles are available from most distributors, or companies listed in The Light in Her Eyes (PBS Video, 86 Sing Your Song (Docurama, 104 min., the “Distributor Addresses” section on min., DVD: $24.95 [$99.95 w/PPR: public DVD: $29.95). Filmmaker Susanne Rostock’s page 78. libraries; $295 w/PPR: colleges & universi- biographical documentary showcases the ties, from The Cinema Guild]). Co-direc- trials and triumphs of groundbreaking Benda Bilili! (National Geographic, 85 tors Julia Meltzer and Laura Nix’s PBS-aired singer and civil arts activist Harry Bela- min., DVD: $19.98). Directors Florent de la POV documentary follows Islamic female fonte. (VL-7/12) Tullaye and Renaud Barret’s documentary preacher Houda al-Habash, who founded profiles the band Staff Benda Bilili—com- one of the first Qur’an schools for girls in We Were Here (Docurama, 90 min., prised of four paraplegics and three able- Damascus. (See review on page 48) DVD: $29.95). Filmmakers David Weis- bodied men—who work in the capital mann and Bill Weber’s documentary about of the war-torn Democratic Republic of The Loving Story (Icarus Films, 77 the emergence of the AIDS crisis is told Congo. min., DVD: $150: public libraries; $298: from the viewpoint of five individuals who colleges & universities). Nancy Buirski’s witnessed the onslaught of the disease in Girl Model (First Run Features, 77 min., HBO-aired documentary on the 1967 San Francisco’s gay community. (VL-7/12) DVD: $27.95 [$250 w/PPR from Carni- Supreme Court case that struck down valesque Films, web: carnivalesquefilms. laws prohibiting interracial unions tells Where Soldiers Come From (New Day com]). An American modeling scout travels the story of Virginia couple Richard and Films, 91 min., DVD: $75: public libraries & to Siberia to secure models for the Japanese Mildred Loving. (VL-7/12) high schools; $299: colleges & universities). market in this PBS-aired POV documentary Filmmaker Heather Courtney’s documen- from filmmakers David Redmon and Ash- Pink Ribbons, Inc. (First Run Features, tary follows young men from Michigan’s ley Sabin that focuses on 13-year-old model 98 min., DVD: $27.95 [$295 w/PPR]). Film- Upper Peninsula to the battlefields of Nadya. (VL-9/12) maker Léa Pool questions the corporate Afghanistan and back home, where they culture surrounding breast cancer research nurse physical and psychological scars. How Does It Feel (National Film Board in this documentary inspired by Dr. Sa- (VL-1/13) of Canada, 34 min., DVD: $150). Director mantha King’s 2006 book. (VL-11/12) Lawrence Jackman’s inspirational docu- You’ve Been Trumped (Docurama, 95 mentary shines a spotlight on 58-year-old The Pruitt-Igoe Myth (First Run Fea- min., DVD: $29.95 [$295 w/PPR from Bull- Kazumi Tsuruoka, a man with cerebral tures, 83 min., DVD: $27.95 [$95 w/PPR: frog Films]). Director Anthony Baxter’s Da- palsy who took singing lessons and began public libraries; 295 w/PPR: colleges & uni- vid and Goliath tale follows local residents performing songs in public. versities]). Chad Freidrichs’ documentary of a Scottish coastal town who oppose a raises questions about U.S. public housing proposed golf course deal by billionaire Inocente (The Cinema Guild, 40 min., policy, focusing on St. Louis’s Pruitt-Igoe tycoon Donald Trump. DVD: $99.95: public libraries; $295: colleges project—hailed as a sterling model in 1956 & universities). Sean Fine and Andrea Nix but later plagued by crime and poverty. Members of the 2012-13 committee Fine’s Oscar-nominated documentary fol- (VL-7/12) are Chair, Mary Hanlin, Tidewater Com- lows talented teenaged painter Inocente munity College, VA; Julia Churchill, Oak Izucar—who moved 30 times in nine years Scenes of a Crime (New Box Produc- Lawn Public Library, IL; Tom Ipri, Drexel through shelters and temporary apart- tions, 88 min., DVD: $295, web: sceneso- University, PA; Laura Jenemann, George ments—as she creates a new exhibition. facrime.com). Blue Hadaegh and Grover Mason University, DC; Tracy Montri, (See review on page 51) Babcock’s documentary explores Toledo-Lucas County Public Library, OH; of a New York man subjected to an aggres- Sam Readman, Miami-Dade Public Library, Into Eternity (The Video Project, 75 sive near-10-hour police interrogation that FL; Joan Skowronski, Hillsborough County min., DVD: $89: public libraries; $295: led him to confess—wrongly—to hurting Library, FL; and Maureen Tripp, Emerson colleges & universities). Filmmaker Michael his four-month-old brain-dead child. College, MA.

MARCH/APRIL 2013 71 VIDEO LIBRARIAN is just one chapter in Key’s life, examined here through voiceover narration, dramatic Airing on PBS Kids, re-enactments, archival eyewitness accounts, Series Update the most recent title in and illustrations. Viewers will learn about the Wild Kratts series The following titles are new additions to Key’s famous prosecution of an abolitionist from PBS Distribution series that were previously recommended. (although Key himself freed his slaves), his is Wild Kratts: Lost Titles are available from most distributors defense of Sam Houston on an assault charge, at Sea (55 min., DVD: unless otherwise noted. and his crucial role in helping avert a crisis $9.99), which combines between the federal government and the state live-action and anima- Lionsgate has released of South Carolina over a tariff conflict. DVD tion while showcasing the latest collection extras include related featurettes, extended zoologists Martin and Chris Kratt in featuring the PBS Kids interviews, and a dramatic reading of the the episodes “Speaking Dolphinese” and animated stories starring complete “Star-Spangled Banner.” Highly “Blowfish Blowout.” See review ofWild the colossal titular ca- recommended. Aud: P. (T. Keogh) Kratts: Creature Adventures in VL-7/11. nine: the seven-episode Celebrate with Clifford Sholem Aleichem: Laughing in the Also from PBS Dis- (77 min., DVD: 2 discs, HHH tribution, Breakfast Darkness $14.98), inspired by the beloved tales by (2011) 93 min. DVD: $350. Filmakers Library. Special 2: Revenge of Norman Bridwell, which also includes five PPR. the Omelets (60 min., extra episodes and the bonus disc Happy DVD: $24.99) is film- Combining stills, archival film footage, and Birthday, Clifford! See review of Clifford the maker Rick Sebak’s artwork, alternating with excerpts from inter- Big Red Dog: Rock N’ Roll Clifford! and Team views with scholars and others (including the Clifford! in VL Online-6/04. PBS-aired follow-up subject’s 100-year-old granddaughter, author to his 2010 original Bella Kaufman)—Joseph Dorman’s biographi- The newest title in Paramount Home documentary, which checks out various cal documentary about the famed Jewish Entertainment’s popular Nickelodeon morning meals served in restaurants writer whose tales of shtetl life in czarist Rus- cartoon series set in the underwater across America, discovering tasty sia made him famous in Eastern Europe (and town of Bikini Bottom is SpongeBob ranging from homemade biscuits in inspired Fiddler on the Roof ) is an engaging SquarePants: Extreme Kah-Rah-Tay North Carolina to salmon cakes in portrait. Solomon Rabinowitz (1859–1916), (88 min., DVD: $14.99), which includes Detroit and loco moco in Hawaii. See whose pen name can be translated as “Hello eight episodes. See review of SpongeBob review of Breakfast Special in VL-1/11. again,” wrote his popular stories in Yiddish SquarePants: Tide and Seek in VL-9/03. rather than Russian, chronicling a way of life The latest compilation featuring HIT that was fast disappearing (not least due to Entertainment and Lionsgate’s friendly the rampant anti-Semitism that forced many Newly available from Shout! Factory is The Adventures of Chuck & Friends: purple dinosaur is Barney Loves You Russian Jews, including Rabinowitz, to flee (144 min., DVD: 3 discs, $19.98), which to Western Europe or the United States). And When Trucks Fly (110 min., DVD: $12.99), featuring Chuck the truck and includes three programs: We Love Our while the author’s later work for the Yiddish Family, I Love My Friends, and You Can theater in New York proved too old-fash- his junkyard pals Digger, Boomer, Rowdy, and Handy, who use their imaginations Be Anything! See review of Barney’s Beach ioned for the local immigrant community, Party in VL-5/02. his funeral cortège drew a huge throng of in this 10-story set. See review of The Ad- mourners as it wended its way through the ventures of Chuck & Friends: Monster Rally in VL-11/12. Also recently released from Lionsgate ethnic neighborhoods. Dorman pays equal and HIT is Thomas & Friends: Full attention to Rabinowitz’s personal and Steam Ahead (140 min., DVD: 3 discs, professional life, adding flavor by employing Also newly available from Paramount is the Nickelodeon-aired six-episode $24.98), featuring the Rev. W. Awdry’s half a dozen actors, including Peter Riegert, talking train engines on the island of to both deliver the narration and also act as Bubble Guppies: On the Job! (138 Sodor in a trio of programs: Railway characters in periodic excerpts from stories min., DVD: $16.99), spotlighting the Friends, Wobbly Wheels & Whistles, about such beloved figures as Tevye and underwater escapades of the fun-loving and Team Up with Thomas. See review Menachem Mendel. Sholem Aleichem will Bubble Guppies kids as they test out of Thomas and Friends: Salty’s Secret in certainly interest students of Yiddish litera- jobs in fields such as doctor, firefighter, ture and cultural historians of the late-19th waiter, and zookeeper. See review of VL-11/02. and early-20th centuries, but the viewer need Bubble Guppies in VL-7/12. not be academically inclined to appreciate Compiled by the Dorman’s well-crafted, revealing profile of Pint-sized traveler A/V Geeks Film Library, a significant transitional figure in modern Dora and her friends Classic Educational Jewish literary history. Recommended. Aud: are back in the latest Shorts, Volume 5: C, P. (F. Swietek) entry from Paramount Rules for School (125 Home Entertainment min., DVD: $19.95) and and Nickelodeon’s popu- Classic Educational O lar animated interactive Shorts, Volume 6: nline preschool series: Dora Troubled Teens (139 min., DVD: $19.95) Visit Video Librarian Online (www. the Explorer: Dora’s Butterfly Ball (69 are the most recent volumes in Kino videolibrarian.com) for more reviews min., DVD: $14.99), which includes the International’s quirky educational series during March and April, including: Beijing special titular gala tale, and two bonus that features archival 16mm “awareness” Punk, Music from the Big House, Skydancer, adventures. See review of Dora the Explorer: short films from yesteryear. See review of and Spend Well, Live Rich with Michelle Big Sister Dora in VL-5/05. How to Be a Man, Volume 1 in VL-11/09. Singletary, plus much more!

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 72 MARCH/APRIL 2013 Japanese Anime

Children Who Chase Lost yama. Recommended. (C. Cassady) extras including a guide to Rome, and art Voices HHH galleries. Recommended. (L. Martincik) (2012) 116 min. DVD: 2 discs, Mass Effect: Paragon $29.98; Blu-ray: $39.98. Sentai Lost HH Tenchi Muyo! Tenchi Filmworks (avail. from most (2012) 2 discs. 95 min. Blu- Universe: The Complete distributors). ISBN: 978-1-6161- ray/DVD Combo: $34.98. HHH 5234-5 (dvd), 978-1-6161- (avail. from most Series 5235-2 (blu-ray). distributors). ISBN: 1-4210- (2000) 4 discs. 650 min. DVD: 2499-3. $39.98. Funimation (avail. Makoto Shinkai’s dreamy anime revolves from most distributors). ISBN: around Asuna, a studious and self-sufficient Talk to a video gamer and he (or she) will 1- 4210 -2 029 -7. young girl—living with her widowed mother be able to explain this Japanese-outsourced Although Tenchi Muyo! and a tiny cat—who enjoys going to her favor- cartoon feature that fills in a gap in the story has never been accused of being profound, ite hideaway, a high ledge overlooking her ru- arc and “universe” of the popular third-per- anime fans hold it dear. In this series reboot, ral village, where she listens to strange music son action-shooter series Mass Effect. For the ordinary 17-year-old schoolboy Tenchi and voices coming from a radio receiver her uninitiated, however, Mass Effect: Paragon Lost Musaki is living with his widowed dad and deceased father left behind. One day Asuna comes across as a series of military skirmishes, granddad in the countryside when a succes- encounters a fearsome bear-like creature, and escapes, and BIG explosions, involving hu- sion of alien girls drop in on the household in a mysterious young man named Shun swoops mans and aliens—largely indistinguishable bizarre bio-mechanical space-battlecruisers in to save her from this “gatekeeper,” while also from similar spin-offs of Starship Troopers or that phase back and forth into cute furry ani- warning her to stay away from the promontory. Wing Commander. After defending space colo- mals. Tenchi swiftly becomes a love object, After revealing he’s from the underworld of nies from the Klingon-ish reptilian Krogans, torn between imperious space princess Ayeka Agartha, Shun disappears, and Asuna becomes Marine James Vega (voiced by Freddie Prinze and her childhood frenemy, Ryoko, a busty, determined to find him. Her teacher, Mr. Jr.) learns that another menace is kidnapping lusty (and part cat) interstellar outlaw. Other Morisaki, tells Asuna about Agartha (like her, entire settlements. The perpetrators turn out extraordinary females also come into Tenchi’s he hopes to resurrect someone from the dead), to be Collectors, an empire of intelligent, orbit, such as mismatch-partnered space po- and aided by Shun’s brother, the two join interstellar insects with particularly evil licewomen, an interplanetary bounty-hunter, forces to explore the world below. Little do uses for captives—presenting a threat that and a diminutive pink-haired lady who hap- they realize that their presence threatens the prompts a brief alliance-of-convenience be- pens to be the galaxy’s most notorious mad survival of the hidden land, as more creatures tween humans and Krogans. Serving up an scientist. A long-popular, manga-derived appear and revelations ensue. Presented in a astronomical body count that leads toward fantasy, the Tenchi Muyo! story feels more dual-language release, rated TV-PG, extras a finale heavy on the themes of epic tragedy elaborate in this 26 episode retelling (airing include audio commentary, a “making-of” and loss, the ‘toon-ish animation here is weak as Tenchi Universe in the U.S. in 2000). The featurette, and cast and crew interviews. compared to the Mass Effect games’ photo- hand-drawn art from 1995 hearkens back Recommended. (K. Fennessy) realistic CGI. Presented in an English-only to pre-CGI anime (as do the karaoke-craze edition, rated TV-MA, extras include behind- jokes). Presented in a dual-language set, rated King of Thorn HHH the-scenes featurettes. Optional for all but TV-14, this is recommended. [Note: Tenchi (2009) 2 discs. 110 min. Blu- hardcore game fans. (C. Cassady) Muyo! Tenchi in Tokyo: The Complete Series is ray/DVD Combo: $24.98. also newly available.] (C. Cassady) Funimation (avail. from most Ristorante Paradiso distributors). ISBN: 1-4210- 2398-9. HHH Un-Go: Complete (2009) 3 discs. 275 min. Collection HHH1/2 Adapted from a serialized DVD: $39.99. The Right Stuf Japanese graphic novel, the (2011) 325 min. DVD: 3 discs, International (avail. from most $59.98; Blu-ray: 2 discs, $69.98. feature-length 2009 anime King of Thorn distributors). ISBN: 1-57032- Sentai Filmworks (avail. from serves up a bloody, apocalyptic sci-fi spin 718-1. most distributors). ISBN: 978-1- on Sleeping Beauty, with a twist of Alien. In On a back street in Rome 6161-5292-5 (dvd), 978-1-6161- 2012, the contagious and fatal Acquired Cel- lies an unassuming restaurant that serves 5293-2 (blu-ray). lular Induration Syndrome—also called the delicious food, but is better known for its Set in a dyspeptic future, Un-Go focuses on Medousa Virus—strikes, turning victims to gentlemanly waitstaff. Here, 21-year-old private eye Shinjurou Yuuki, who is accompa- stone and setting off a global panic. A biotech Nicoletta arrives in search of her estranged nied by Inga—a shape-shifting young woman giant (suspected of creating Medousa to fulfill mother (who receives her with wariness and with unusual talents—on an extended Christian end-times prophecy) retrofits a warmth) and then stays on as a sous chef, adventure that features artificial intelli- Gothic Scottish castle as a high-tech hiberna- becoming smitten with middle-aged single gence, hacking, dangerous corporations, and tion center to house an international selec- server Claudio, who still wears his old wed- hitherto unknown deities. Marked by clever tion of patients, who will be revived in the ding ring. Over the course of the 11-episode writing, this series serves up a strange mix of future when a cure is found. But something series, viewers learn why all of the male staff traditional mysteries and off-the-wall sci-fi goes wrong, and the sleepers awaken to a wear glasses, what secret Nicoletta holds shenanigans. Even when the story seems to nightmare of ravenous monsters and giant over her mother’s head, and whether or not detour into hopelessly bizarre territory—most brambles throughout the ruined complex. Claudio can get over his ex-wife. Ristorante notably in a subplot about Shinjurou being Solving the enigma of Medousa (in between Paradiso favors a slow narrative arc over flashy trapped in a fantasy scenario involving the monster battles) turns out to be a mind- excitement, reveling in the everyday life creation of a war documentary—the kinetic bending sort of everything-is-connected-to- of the Casetta dell’Orso restaurant and the energy and stylish production design keeps everything-else metaphysical whirl that can people who work there. Lovingly illustrated, viewers involved. Presenting all 11 episodes become somewhat confounding, although this is an uncharacteristic anime offering from 2011 in a dual language set, rated TV-14, the superb CGI graphics make for a visually that is solely focused on relationships and extras include a prequel episode, several Inga- mesmerizing watch. Presented in a dual-lan- love. Based on the manga by Ono Natsume, related shorts, and a featurette on novelist guage release, rated TV-MA, extras include this 2009 series is presented in Japanese with Ango Sakaguchi, whose writing inspired the an interview with director Kazuyoshi Kata- English subtitles, rated 13-up, and features series. Highly recommended. (P. Hall)

MARCH/APRIL 2013 73 VIDEO LIBRARIAN Music Dance

Attila HHH1/2 Philharmonic, and Marco Jentzsch (Wal- extras include a featurette on Frampton’s (2010) 118 min. In Italian ther) and Anna Gabler (Eva) are somewhat reunion with his Phoenix guitar. A wonder- w/English subtitles. DVD: raw in their singing. But Gerald Finley is an ful stroll down memory lane for FCA! fans $29.99, Blu-ray: $39.99. Unitel absolutely splendid Sachs both vocally and and welcome introduction to contemporary Classica (dist. by Naxos of dramatically, and Johannes Martin Kränzle Frampton, this is highly recommended. America). makes Beckmesser a pathetic fool. Fine sup- (R. Pitman) The ninth release in Uni- porting turns from Topi Lehtipuu as Sachs’s tel’s chronological series apprentice, David, and Alastair Miles as Eva’s From Dust to Dreams: of all of Verdi’s operas is his 1846 “lyrical father, Pogner, further enhance the produc- Opening Night at drama” about the titular ferocious Hun tion. Presented in DTS 5.1 (DTS-HD 5.1 on warlord who marched on Rome in the mid- the Blu-ray version) and LPCM stereo, extras the Smith Center for 5th century. In a bit of what passes here include a cast gallery, a behind-the-scenes Performing Arts HHH for history, Attila features the intervention featurette on the production, and a look at (2012) 120 min. DVD: $24.99 of Pope Leo I, who supposedly persuaded the “baggage” carried by the opera—which ($54.95 w/PPR). PBS Video. the king to abandon his attack on the city. Closed captioned. ISBN: 978-1- was, after all, Hitler’s favorite. Far preferable 60883-766-3. But that incident is just the backdrop to a to the misguided 2008 Bayreuth produc- Actor and stage performer Neil Patrick Har- romantic triangle in which Attila’s beautiful tion (VL-7/11), this is highly recommended. ris hosts this PBS-aired filming of the opening prisoner, Odabella (whom he plans to marry), (F. Swietek) conspires with her lover, Foresto, to kill the night festivities at Las Vegas’s Smith Center for the Performing Arts. Performing on an art barbarian and avenge her father’s death at his FCA! 35 Tour: An Evening hands. Like earlier releases in the series, this deco-style stage, the artists hail from a wide 2010 production employs the resources of with Peter Frampton array of genres, including jazz (trumpeter the Teatro Regio di Parma, with the company HHH1/2 Arturo Sandoval), country (Martina McBride), orchestra delivering a stirring rendition of the (2012) 166 min. DVD or pop (, Carole King), rock score under the baton of Andrea Battistoni. Blu-ray: $19.98. Eagle Rock (John Fogerty), R&B (Mavis Staples), classical Entertainment (avail. from (violinist Joshua Bell), dance (a Twyla Tharp- The vocalism is also excellent, with soprano most distributors). Susanna Branchini (Odabella), bass Giovanni Frank Sinatra suite), and musical theater (14 Battista Parodi (Attila), and tenor Roberto de FCA! 35 Tour actually fea- show tunes). Among the theater stars, Brian Biasio (Foresto) giving commanding perfor- tures two evenings with Peter Frampton, the Stokes Mitchell makes the biggest impression mances. The only drawback is that the opera former Humble Pie guitarist who went solo in with an impassioned version of “Impossible was mounted at the Teatro Verdi di Busseto, 1971, releasing four lukewarm-selling albums Dream” from Man of La Mancha. Other Broad- and the tiny stage makes for cramped, static before striking gold (and multi-platinum) way notables include Cheyenne Jackson, direction by Pierfrancesco Maestrini, who with 1976’s Frampton Comes Alive! double Benjamin Walker, and Sherie Rene Scott, tries to compensate with rear projections LP—for many years the bestselling live who perform songs from West Side Story, Sweet that cannot entirely make up for the modest record of all time. In the first of two shows Charity, , and other popular sets. Presented in DTS 5.1 (DTS-HD 5.1 on from February 2012, Frampton and his band musicals. Aside from the solo performances, the Blu-ray version) and PCM stereo, extras (including original bass player Stanley Shel- several artists also perform together: McBride include an intro to the opera. Highly recom- don) perform FCA! in its entirety before an duets with Pat Monahan from Train, while mended. (F. Swietek) appreciative audience at Milwaukee’s Pabst Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard team up Theater. Backed by Rob Arthur on keyboards/ (and share the stage with Emmylou Harris). Die Meistersinger von guitar, Adam Lester on guitar, and Dan Of the non-Broadway performers, McBride Wojciechowski on drums, Frampton rocks his and Hudson exhibit the strongest singing, Nürnberg HHH1/2 beloved long-lost-and-recently-recovered Les while Staples and Haggard understandably (2011) 2 discs. 280 min. In Paul guitar—nicknamed the Phoenix—dur- appear to have lost a bit of vocal power over German w/English subtitles. DVD or Blu-ray: $29.99. ing the 14-song set that includes the megahits the decades, although they maintain their Opus Arte (dist. by Naxos of “Show Me the Way,” “Baby, I Love Your Way,” singular styles. The fancy dress crowd here America). and the anthem “Do You Feel Like We Do” is pretty sedate for most of the evening until England’s Glyndebourne (featuring the famous “talk box” tube that Fogerty inspires a little dancing with a rous- Festival isn’t exactly noted for Wagner pro- mixes the guitar’s sound with Frampton’s ing rendition of “Proud Mary,” but they save ductions, but director David McVicar uses the voice). Frampton, who was never a distinctive their standing ovations for Hudson and Bell. site’s smallish stage deftly in his 2011 mount- singer, is no great shakes on the mic here, but Presented in 5.1 surround sound and stereo, ing of the composer’s warmest, most humane his nimble fingers fly on “Lines on My Face,” this is recommended. (K. Fennessy) opera, which recounts how wise cobbler Hans “(I Wanna) Go to the Sun,” and the rousing Sachs intervenes to ensure that the young cover of “Jumpin’ Jack Flash.” A 12-song : for knight Walther wins the hand of the lovely second set filmed at New York City’s Beacon Jimi HHH Eva in a singing contest in which Walther Theatre draws primarily from Frampton’s (2012) 74 min. DVD: $14.98, is pitted against the obnoxious Beckmesser. 2006 Grammy-winning CD Fingerprints Blu-ray: $19.98. Eagle Rock This 1868 opera emerges as both a genial (including “Double Nickels,” “Float,” and a Entertainment (avail. from paean to true love and a song of praise to the cover of Soundgarden’s “ Sun”) most distributors). innovative artist (a role that Wagner clearly and 2010’s Thank You Mr. Churchill (includ- Belfast-born blues-rocker felt described him perfectly) in McVicar’s ing the lovely autobiographical “Vaudeville Gary Moore performs his staging, which updates the action from the Nanna and the Banjolele,” “Restraint,” and favorite selections in this 16th century to the early 19th and features “Road to the Sun,” featuring Frampton’s son 12-song set at London’s Hippodrome from attractive sets and costumes while otherwise Julian on vocals), closing out with a stirring October 2007 that offers few surprises. Just adopting a traditional approach. Conductor encore performance of George Harrison’s as Hendrix formed a trio with Vladimir Jurowski emphasizes clarity and “While My Guitar Gently Weeps.” Presented and Noel Redding as the Jimi Hendrix Experi- swiftness over majesty and lushness in the in DTS 5.1 and Dolby Digital stereo on DVD ence, two sidemen here join Moore: Darrin performance he draws from the London and DTS-HD 5.1 and LPCM stereo on Blu-ray, Mooney (Primal Scream) on drums and

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 74 MARCH/APRIL 2013 Dave Bronze (Eric Clapton, Art of Noise) on set and those wanting to fill a lacuna in rock ‘n’ roll photographer Bob Gruen and his bass. The players are as adept as their leader, their Verdi collections, this is recommended. wife, Nadya Beck, stitched together grainy though Mooney’s playing on the fast-paced (F. Swietek) (but functional) footage, alternating between “Fire” seems a little sluggish. As a singer, color and black-and-white. The film also fea- Moore lacks a voice that is as distinctive I Am: SMTOWN Live tures a clip from The Tonight Show in which as Hendrix’s (or even fellow Irishman Phil World Tour in Madison Ike and Tina performed with their backing Lynott, with whom Moore played in Thin HHH band along with the singing and dancing Lizzy), but there’s nothing too painful here. Square Garden Ikettes. Unfortunately, no onscreen text speci- (2011) 125 min. DVD: 4 fies where the other shows took place (except That said, Moore handles the rockers better discs, $24.99; Blu-ray: 2 discs, than ballads like “My Angel,” which would $39.99. CJ Entertainment for a sign indicating the University of North have benefited from a more gentle touch (for (avail. from most distributors). Dakota), although the accompanying book- this track, he also switches from a Fender Combining a concert let—featuring photographs and liner notes Stratocaster to a Gibson Flying V). During performance with interwoven documentary by Gruen—fills in a few gaps. Off the road, three of the last four numbers, Moore brings footage, I Am presents seven K-pop (Korean Tina cooks for the kids, washes dishes, and Mitchell and from Hendrix’s Band pop) acts at Madison Square Garden in 2011 talks to Nadya—who occasionally appears of Gypsys onstage to join him, handing the as part of the SMTOWN Live World Tour. onscreen—about her image and her desire microphone to Cox for “Red House” and Smooth moves, trendy apparel, and breezy to write more songs. While the monaural “,” while the show ends with an harmonies rank high among the bands’ sound can be muddy and the camerawork expansive take on “Voodoo Child (Slight priorities, aligning them with the Western shaky, the performances of the full-throated Return)” with the first line-up.Blues for Jimi variant of manufactured pop outfits from Tina and live-wire Ikettes are consistently essentially serves as a showcase for Moore’s *NSYNC to One Direction, although these riveting, and this disc offers up 19 selections prowess on electric guitar, which should singers seem less reliant on Auto-Tune (be- from the group’s repertoire, including the please his devoted following. Sadly, both hind-the-scenes a cappella numbers reveal signature numbers “River Deep, Mountain High” and “Proud Mary,” although not all are Moore (1952-2011) and Mitchell (1947-2008) several strong singers). As influences, the played in their entirety. Gruen and Beck con- have since passed away. Presented in DTS 5.1 performers mention , Michael Jack- centrate most of their attention on Tina, but and Dolby Digital stereo on DVD, and DTS- son, and Justin Timberlake. The women of Ike contributes a lengthy, psychedelic guitar HD 5.1 and LPCM stereo on Blu-ray, this is the five-member f(x) and nine-member Girls’ solo during an intense, slow-burning version recommended. (K. Fennessy) Generation perform hip-hop-influenced of the blues standard “I Smell Trouble.” DVD tracks that combine English and Korean extras include a slideshow. Fans are sure to Giovanna d’Arco HHH lyrics, while the nine-member welcome this release, which is recommended, (2012) 128 min. In Italian w/ and two-member TVXQ! offer an acrobatic overall. (K. Fennessy) English subtitles. DVD: $29.99, brand of boy-band pop—the latter entering Blu-ray: $39.99. Unitel Classica (dist. by Naxos of America). the stage suspended on wires and hidden harnesses. Other acts, including the solo John Cage: Journeys in The seventh release in artists and BoA, incorporate metal Sound HHH the Tutto Verdi series from and techno into their musical mix. Between (2012) 61 min. DVD: $24.99, Parma’s Teatro Regio, com- performances, the entertainers talk about Blu-ray: $39.99. Accentus piling all of Verdi’s operas, offers another Music (avail. from most their stage names and personas; since K-pop distributors). rarity—a mounting of the composer’s 1845 appears to thrive on artifice, the singers have opera about Joan of Arc (here, Giovanna), no problem admitting that they are, at least Co-directors Paul Smacz- which turns the martyr’s life into a romance in some cases, playing roles. Fans will find ny and Allan Miller hand- in which she’s torn between her divinely in- ily make the case here that experimental the audition and rehearsal footage of special spired duty and her worldly love for France’s composer John Cage (1912-1992) built his interest, since some participants were quite King Carlo (Charles VII), whose throne she career around sound in all its forms. In an young when they joined the SMTOWN fam- saves from the English. The third major archival interview, Cage explains that his ily; from Girls’ Generation, for instance, character in the plot is Giacomo, Giovanna’s goal was to “open the eyes and ears” to says that she became a trainee when she father, who accuses his own daughter of the beauty of noise and other phenomena was in fifth grade and joined the group six witchcraft but saves her from execution that don’t normally qualify as music. Other years later, indicating the degree to which when he hears her at prayer, allowing her to interviews and performances feature John SM Entertainment mirrors Hollywood’s old- lead the French army to their final victory, Lennon and Yoko Ono, composer Christian fashioned star-making machinery. Bundling although she is mortally wounded in the pro- Wolff, and Cage’s partner, choreographer cess. Historically, this is nonsense, of course, the feature-length title documentary with the Merce Cunningham. Several of Cage’s pieces, but Verdi’s score is lovely, effective, and well full-length concert, extras include backstage played by various artists and ensembles, are conducted by Bruno Bartoletti, who draws footage and a music video. Presented in interspersed throughout the film to illustrate both vigorous and sensitive playing from Dolby Digital 5.1 on DVD and Blu-ray, this Cage’s concepts, such as chance operations, the company orchestra. Shining in the major is recommended for larger music collections. which took inspiration from the I Ching (in roles are Svetla Vassileva (Giovanna), who (K. Fennessy) addition to his compositional skills, Cage was exhibits a strong soprano, and Evan Bowers a Zen Buddhist, a mycologist, and a painter). (Carlo), a ringing tenor. The sole drawback Ike & Tina: On the Road New Yorker critic Calvin Tomkins credits is veteran Renato Bruson’s rather wobbly vo- 1971-72 HHH Cage for freeing other composers to look calism as Giacomo. Gabriele Lavia’s produc- (1972) 81 min. DVD: $19.95. beyond received wisdom about the primacy tion—featuring period sets and costumes—is Music Video Distributors of traditional instruments. A representative highly traditional, and while the staging is a (avail. from most distributors). from Cage’s longtime publisher, C.F. Peters, bit static at times, overall this is pleasant to On the Road provides an even uses the word “instructions” in refer- the eye. Presented in DTS 5.1 (DTS-HD 5.1 off-the-cuff look at R&B ence to the composer’s music, since many on the Blu-ray version) and PCM stereo, the performers Ike and Tina of his compositions read like short plays or sole extra here is a brief introduction to the Turner at home, in rehearsal, and on tour. stage directions (an example being that the opera. Both for those collecting the entire Rather than making a formal documentary, performer should hold a note for as long as

MARCH/APRIL 2013 75 VIDEO LIBRARIAN possible instead of a specific amount of time). Lynn, James Taylor, and Kris Kristofferson as in 1977. After several more lineup changes, “Water Music,” which incorporates a duck significant influences. Offstage, they play golf the Doobie Brothers embarked on a farewell whistle, a radio, and a prepared piano, serves and ping-pong, work out, and attend meet tour in 1982, although they would still get as a particularly vivid example. Although and greets. Onstage, Charles Kelley and Hill- together for annual benefit gigs, and five years scant on biographical details, Journeys in ary Scott do most of the singing, while Dave later decided to reform. Towards the end of Sound offers a well-rounded examination of Haywood provides guitar, mandolin, piano, the documentary, the band members’ wives Cage’s creative process. Extras include four and backing vocals. A five-piece band fills out and kids weigh in with their thoughts, add- additional performances and an interview their sound, which incorporates pop hooks ing a welcome dimension. Presented in DTS with Cage, Cunningham, and artist Robert and rock licks. The threesome don’t exactly 5.1 and Dolby Digital stereo on DVD, and Rauschenberg on their collaborative process. write the most distinctive material—which DTS-HD 5.1 on Blu-ray and LPCM stereo, Presented in DTS 5.1 and Dolby Digital stereo includes titles such as “I Run to You” and extras include nine bonus songs performed on DVD, and DTS-HD 5.1 and PCM stereo on “Need You Now”—but all are competent per- live. Recommended. (K. Fennessy) Blu-ray, this is recommended. (K. Fennessy) formers, and audience members express their appreciation by cheering and singing along Merce Cunningham La Bohème HH1/2 with the upbeat numbers, and slow-dancing Dance Company: Park (2012) 127 min. In Italian w/ to the ballads. From both a vocal and visual English subtitles. DVD: $29.99, standpoint, Kelley takes center stage more Avenue Armory Event Blu-ray: $39.99. Electric Picture often than not, as he appears to be more of HHH1/2 (dist. by Naxos of America). an extrovert than his band mates. After the (2012) 3 discs. 279 min. Anyone looking for a very DVD: $60. Microcinema show, the band invites several friends and International. PPR. nontraditional production fans to jam with them, including Modern of Puccini’s popular opera Family’s Eric Stonestreet. Presented in DTS After Merce Cunning- about the doomed romance of Rodolfo and 5.1 and Dolby Digital stereo on DVD, and ham—a cutting-edge figure in the world of Mimi will want to check out this 2012 pro- DTS-HD 5.1 on Blu-ray and LPCM stereo, modern dance—died in 2009, the company duction from the Norwegian National Opera. extras include a pair of behind-the-scene he founded in 1953 undertook several com- The original, of course, is set in Paris’s Latin featurettes, and five additional songs. Sure memorative projects, including a major event held at the Park Avenue Armory in Quarter around 1830, and the couple’s ardent to appeal to the band’s legion of fans, this is New York on the last three nights of 2011 as love ends—spoiler alert!—in Mimi’s death recommended. (K. Fennessy) from consumption and Rodolfo sobbing a farewell to the company (which disbanded over her corpse. Stefan Herheim’s staging, Let the Music Play: The on New Year’s Day). Presenting excerpts however, opens in a modern ICU where the from the troupe’s repertory (often performed heroine—bald from chemotherapy—expires, Story of the Doobie simultaneously across three stages), the and the rest of the story is told in flashback. Brothers HHH selections—chosen by the dancers, along Although the hospital setting is maintained, (2012) 148 min. DVD: $14.98, with some ensemble pieces—were arranged Blu-ray: $19.98. Eagle Rock by Robert Swinston. The first disc of this bits and pieces of period costuming and Entertainment (avail. from décor are periodically inserted, sometimes set offers a collage of pieces from the varied most distributors). venues, shot from different angles, while the to rather jarring effect. Still, Heike Scheele’s In Barry Ehrmann’s docu- second disc contains complete performances set design nicely serves Herheim’s concept, mentary profile, the Doobie Brothers (along from each of the three stages shown from a and Diego Torre stands out as Rodolfo, while with producer Ted Templeman and long- single, unchanging perspective. The final disc Marita Solberg’s Mimi is solid (although Jen- time manager Bruce Cohn) tell their own serves up a retrospective of Cunningham’s nifer Rowley’s Musetta isn’t much more than story, tracing the band’s long history starting career, featuring excerpts from 17 works he adequate). Offering able support throughout with their early roots in the Bay Area. The choreographed that were included on the is the company orchestra and chorus, led by group was already starting to land gigs in company’s “Legacy Tour” of 2010–11 (an Eivind Gullberg Jensen. Presented in DTS 1970 when they realized that they needed accompanying booklet features full data on 5.1 (DTS-HD 5.1 on the Blu-ray version) and a name. Guitarist Patrick Simmons admits each one). Spanning the years from 1956 LPCM stereo, extras include brief backstage that “Doobie Brothers,” which began as a to 2009, the clips are drawn from films in interviews, and a cast gallery. While a less joke, was stupid, but it stuck. Label attention the Merce Cunningham Archive and vary radical version—such as the recent Opera came early, but their Warner Brothers debut in terms of sound and picture quality. But Australia mounting (VL-9/12)—would be a made little impact, so the band added a sec- along with earlier releases—Split Sides: Merce safer choice, this should still be considered a ond drummer to their three-guitar line-up Cunningham Dance Company (VL Online-8/09) strong optional purchase. (F. Swietek) and released the single “Listen to the Music” and Merce Cunningham Dance Company: Robert from 1972’s Toulouse Street, which became a Rauschenberg Collaborations (VL-5/11)—this Lady Antebellum: Own big hit. “By ‘74,” remembers singer-guitarist set provides an outstanding overview of the Night World Tour and primary songwriter Tom Johnston, “we the achievements of one of America’s most HHH had a Doobieliner”: i.e., a nonstop party important choreographers. Highly recom- (2012) 124 min. DVD: $14.98, plane. In short order, the group topped the mended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek) Blu-ray: $19.98. Eagle Rock charts with “Black Water” and added former Entertainment (avail. from Steely Dan guitarist Jeff “Skunk” Baxter, but Neil Sedaka in Concert most distributors). then Johnston developed a bleeding ulcer. HHH1/2 Mostly filmed during a While he took time off, Michael McDonald (1991) 95 min. DVD: 2012 performance in Little Rock, AR, this stepped in as a backup singer and keyboard $19.99. SRO (dist. by Kultur captures Nashville trio Lady player, impressing the other members so International Films). ISBN: Antebellum while on a world tour in support much that he was able to take over on lead 978-0-7697-9247-7. of their third album, 2011’s Own the Night. Be- vocals. McDonald’s songwriting skills also This delightful August tween performances from the 13-song set and brought more hits, including “Takin’ It to the 1991 live performance by behind-the-scenes footage, the Grammy win- Streets” and “It Keeps You Runnin’.” Unhappy Neil Sedaka was shot in Birmingham, Eng- ners talk about their origins, citing Loretta with the band’s new direction, Johnston left land, before an adoring audience happy to

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 76 MARCH/APRIL 2013 hear the master showman perform both his interest by contributing tap steps to several the stage version—but not the movie—of early, Brill Building hits (“Oh Carol,” “Happy numbers. De Lucía finally seems to snap out Guys and Dolls)—and interview clips featur- Birthday Sweet Sixteen”) and the more of his trance during the last song, “Buana, ing a lot of kisses-on-the-bottom accolades mature songs of his 1970s comeback period Buana, King Kong” (and while watching directed at the former Beatle from Stevie (such as “Laughter In the Rain,” performed Pardo play the soprano saxophone, de Lucía Wonder, Eric Clapton, Joe Walsh, and Diana here with daughter Dara Sedaka). In a nice breaks into his one and only smile). Presented Krall. Guitarist Walsh plays on a couple tunes preface to the concert, Sedaka talks about in DTS 5.1, Dolby Digital 5.1, and PCM stereo, (including the one McCartney original, “My the old days, when rock ‘n’ roll was new and this is recommended. (K. Fennessy) Valentine”), while pianist Krall performs on he was—quite literally—writing pop classics all, and nearly has as much screen time as alongside the likes of Carole King, Barry Patti Smith: Live at McCartney during the concert segments. On Mann, and Neil Diamond in a New York of- Montreux 2005 HHH the cusp of 70 during filming, McCartney fice. Sedaka also talks about his own stardom, (2005) 83 min. DVD: $14.98, no longer sports the pipes to really do these his return to the stage after some fallow years, Blu-ray: $19.98. Eagle Rock songs justice (and couldn’t compete with the and how he found (and maintains) a strong Entertainment (avail. from crooners who made them famous anyway, relationship with British fans. The 20-plus most distributors). including Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra, and song set features a number of highlights, On tour at the time in Bing Crosby), but he is backed by such solid including Sedaka doing a bit of dancing support of 2004’s Trampin’, studio musicians, including John Clayton on during “Calendar Girl,” and abandoning his poet-musician Patti Smith performs in this bass, John Pizzarelli on guitar, and Karriem piano altogether for expansive numbers such satisfying 2005 engagement from Switzer- Riggins on drums, that the whole thing just as “Good Times, Good Music, Good Friends.” land’s Montreux Jazz Festival, backed by three kind of grows on you, so by the time Fats The one sour note is that more than a third longtime collaborators—guitarist Lenny Kaye Waller’s “My Very Good Friend the Milkman” of the show, technically, consists of a series of and drummer Jay Dee Daugherty (Patti Smith rolls around, it’s hard not to smile, nod your encores, since Sedaka leaves the stage after a Group) and Tom Verlaine (Television)—as head, and tap your foot. Presented in DTS mere 12 songs, so the final nine songs are by well as Tony Shanahan on bass and key- 5.1, Dolby Digital 5.1 and stereo on DVD, audience demand. One can’t help but groan boards. Although Smith sprinkles new tracks and DTS-HD 5.1, Dolby Digital 5.1, and PCM at such hucksterism, especially since Sedaka throughout the set, she spends more time stereo on Blu-ray, extras include six different already has the audience wrapped around on 1970s classics, like “Dancing Barefoot” music video takes on “My Valentine,” photo his finger with both versions of “Breaking and the Bruce Springsteen co-written smash shoot footage, an interview with McCartney Up Is Hard to Do” (fast and slow) and the hit “Because the Night.” Smith also trades and producer Tommy LiPuma, and a booklet. sweet “My Son and I.” The best thing here is vocals with Kaye on a forthright cover of Bob Recommended. (R. Pitman) Sedaka’s take on “Solitaire,” a soaring ballad Dylan’s “Like a Rolling Stone,” which isn’t he co-wrote about self-induced loneliness bad, although her rollicking take on Buddy Yardbirds: Making Tracks that never sounded right in the sappy ver- Holly’s “Not Fade Away” works better, not HH sions by the Carpenters and Andy Williams. least because vocal partner Shanahan is a (2012) 2 discs. 127 min. Presented in Dolby Digital stereo, this blast stronger singer than Kaye. Thirty years down DVD: $19.95. Music Video from the early days of rock ‘n’ roll past is the line, Smith and her band mates still sound Distributors (avail. from most highly recommended. (T. Keogh) vital and energized, and while Smith primar- distributors). ily concentrates on the delivery of her words Few legendary rock bands Paco de Lucía & Group: and lyrics, she picks up an electric guitar for have undergone as many Jazz HHH “25th Floor” and an acoustic one for “Beneath radical personnel changes over 50 years as (1996) 80 min. DVD: $24.99. the Southern Cross,” which features a Byrds- the Yardbirds, the British blues-rock ensemble Arthaus Musik (dist. by Naxos inspired instrumental interlude. And towards that yielded three legendary guitarists (Eric of America). the end of the 12-song set she adds clarinet Clapton, Jeff Beck, and Jimmy Page) and at Spanish guitarist Paco to the stately, mournful “Seven Ways of Go- one point contained all of the members of de Lucía (born Francisco ing,” which she dedicates to free-jazz pioneer Led Zeppelin. After breaking up in 1968, Sánchez Gómez) plays his nimble brand Ornette Coleman. Presented in DTS-5.1 and the band stayed dormant until 1992, when of flamenco-flavored jazz in this live per- Dolby Digital stereo on DVD, and DTS-HD co-founders Jim McCarty (drums) and Chris formance from Germany’s Germeringer 5.1 and LPCM stereo on Blu-ray, this is recom- Dreja (rhythm guitar) put together a new Jazztage. Although several accompanists join mended. (K. Fennessy) lineup that has changed frequently ever in, de Lucía spends most of the time with since. Yardbirds: Making Tracks is an unim- his legs crossed and eyes closed for this 1996 Paul McCartney: Live pressive—depressing, actually—performance six-song set featuring “Playa del Carmen,” a Kisses HHH showcase for the contemporary Yardbirds, piece originally recorded with pianist Chick (2012) 75 min. DVD: $29.98, basically two old guys (Dreja and McCarty) Corea. To the rhythms of the opening num- Blu-ray: $34.98. Eagle Rock and three young fresh fellows with nary ber, “Mi Niño Curro,” two band mates add Entertainment (avail. from a grey hair or hint of inspiration between gentle claps and foot taps. For “El Pañuelo,” most distributors). them. Not even a cohesive concert, the 15- the rest of the seven-member ensemble fills Filmed live at Capitol Stu- song Making Tracks is culled from multiple out his sound with flute (Jorge Pardo), vocals dios in Hollywood in Febru- 2012 shows, although all exhibit a bar-band (Pepe de Lucía), and additional guitar (Ramón ary 2012, Sir Paul McCartney performs all 13 level of craftsmanship. If you’re familiar (and de Algeciras and Juan Manuel Canizares). De songs from his most recent release, Kisses on still in love) with such Yardbirds classics as Lucía’s brother, Pepe, brings to mind the de- the Bottom—Macca’s love letter to the Ameri- “Heart Full of Soul” and the glorious “Shapes votional Qawwali singing of the late Pakistani can Songbook. Directed by Jonas Åkerlund of Things,” prepare to be heartbroken by the vocalist Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, while Pardo in atmospheric black-and-white, Live Kisses renditions here. A bonus disc features extras recalls a more Latin-oriented Herbie Mann. alternates between the songs—which include including a behind-the-scenes documentary, Other musicians include bass player Carlos classics such as “It’s Only a Paper Moon,” brief interviews with McCarty and Dreja, and Benavent, percussionist Rubem Dantas, “Ac-Cen-Tchu-Ate the Positive,” “Always,” a pair of performances by the Jim McCarty and dancer Joaquin Grilo, who adds visual “Bye Bye Blackbird,” and “We Three” (from Band. Not a necessary purchase. (T. Keogh)

MARCH/APRIL 2013 77 VIDEO LIBRARIAN Distributor Addresses

Human Relations Media Nutmeg Media Vision Video Contact information for distribu- 41 Kensico Dr. 6940 Hall St. P.O. Box 540 Mt. Kisco, NY 10549 Holland, OH 43528 Worcester, PA 19490 tors of titles reviewed in this is- Tel: (800) 431-2050 Tel: (877) 262-3690 Tel: (800) 523-0226 sue are listed below. Some titles Web: hrmvideo.com Web: nutmegmedia.com Web: visionvideo.com must be ordered direct, while Icarus Films On Air Video Weston Woods Studios others are available from a wide 32 Court St., 21st Fl. 8203 Westminster Rd. 90 Old Sherman Tpke. variety of distributors. Brooklyn, NY 11201 Elkins Park, PA 19027 Danbury, CT 06816 Tel: (800) 876-1710 Tel: (215) 885-2828 Tel: (800) 243-5020 Web: icarusfilms.com Web: onairvideo.com Web: scholastic.com/westonwoods

Janson Media Paraclete Press Women Make Movies 88 Semmens Rd. P.O. Box 1568 462 Broadway, Ste. 500 Harrington Park, NJ 07640 Orleans, MA 02653 New York, NY 10013 Aspectfilms Tel: (201) 784-8488 Tel: (800) 451-5006 Tel: (212) 925-0606 4730 Manzanita St. Web: janson.com Web: paracletepress.com Web: wmm.com Eugene, OR 97405 Web: carefarmsfilm.com Kino Lorber Edu PBS Video 333 W. 39th St., Ste. 503 2100 Crystal Dr. The AV Cafe New York, NY 10018 Arlington, VA 22202 6201 S. 58th St., Ste. A Tel: (212) 629-6880 Tel: (800) 344-3337 Lincoln, NE 68516 Web: kinolorberedu.com Web: .org Tel: (877) 228-2233 Web: theavcafe.com Kultur International Films Re-Emerging Films 195 Hwy. 36 123 West 131st St., Ste. 3 Bennett-Watt HD Productions West Long Branch, NJ 07764 New York, NY 10027 13021 244th Ave. SE Tel: (800) 573-3782 Tel: (310) 869-4686 Issaquah, WA 98027 Web: kultur.com Web: re-emergingfilm.com Tel: (800) 327-2893 Web: bennett-watt.com Learning Seed Rising Star Studios 641 W. Lake St., Ste. 301 5251 W. 73rd St., Ste. C Bullfrog Films Chicago, IL 60661 Edina, MN 55439 P.O. Box 149 Tel: (800) 634-4941 Tel: (952) 831-8532 Oley, PA 19547 Web: learningseed.com Web: risingstareducation.com Tel: (800) 543-3764 Web: bullfrogfilms.com Learning Zone Express Ro*Co Films Educational P.O. Box 1022 80 Liberty Ship Way, Ste. 5 The Cinema Guild Owatonna, MN 55060 Sausalito, CA 94965 115 W. 30th St., Ste. 800 Tel: (888) 455-7003 Tel: (415) 332-6471 New York, NY 10001 Web: learningzonexpress.com Web: rocoeducational.com Tel: (800) 723-5522 Web: cinemaguild.com Library Video Network Ruth Diskin Films 320 York Rd. P.O. Box 7153 Clarity Films Towson, MD 21204 Jerusalem, 91071 ISRAEL 2600 Tenth St., Ste. 412 Tel: (800) 441-8273 Tel: 972-2-6724256 Berkeley, CA 94710 Web: lvn.org Web: ruthfilms.com Tel: (510) 841-3469 Web: clarityfilms.org The Martin Institute for Teaching TDC Entertainment Excellence 220 East 23rd St., Ste. 405 eOne Entertainment 4025 Popular Ave. New York, NY 10010 22 Harbor Park Dr. Memphis, TN 38111 Web: www.shelterisland.net Port Washington, NY 11050 Tel: (901) 842-4699 Tel: (516) 484-1000 Web: worldpeacegame.org TMW Media Group Web: e1homevideo.com 2321 Abbot Kinney Blvd. Master Communications Venice, CA 90291 Filmakers Library 4480 Lake Forest Dr., Ste. 302 Tel: (800) 262-8862 124 E. 40th St. Cincinnati, OH 45242 Web: tmwmedia.com New York, NY 10016 Tel: (800) 765-5885 Tel: (703) 212-8520 Web: master-comm.com Transit Media Web: filmakers.com 190 Route 17 M, Ste. D Microcinema International Harriman, NY 10926 Films Media Group 71 Stevenson St., Ste. 400 Tel: (800) 343-5540 132 West 31st St., 17th Fl. San Francisco, CA 94105 Web: transitmedia.net New York, NY 10001 Tel: (415) 447-9750 Tel: (800) 322-8755 Web: microcinema.com Under the Sign Web: films.com 29 West 26th St., #5 National Film Board of Canada New York, NY 10010 Fireweed, Inc. P.O. Box 6100, Centre-Ville Station Tel: (212) 683-1266 P.O. Box 1103 Montreal, H3C 3H5 CANADA Web: outonalimbdocumentary.com Ojai, CA 93024 Tel (800) 542-2164 Web: showingupmovie.com Web: nfb.ca The Video Project P.O. Box 411376 First Run Features Naxos of America San Francisco, CA 94141 630 Ninth Ave., Ste. 1213 1810 Columbia Ave., Ste. 28 Tel: (800) 475-2638 New York, NY 10036 Franklin, TN 37064 Web: videoproject.com Tel: (800) 229-8575 Tel: (615) 771-9393 Web: firstrunfeatures.com Web: naxos.com Videos With Values 4126 Seven Hills Dr. Green Planet Films New Day Films Florissant, MO 63033 P.O. Box 247 190 Route 17M Tel: (800) 233-4629 Corte Madera, CA 94976 Harriman, NY 10926 Web: videoswithvalues.org Tel: (415) 377-5471 Tel: (888) 367-9154 Web: greenplanetfilms.org Web: newday.com

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 78 MARCH/APRIL 2013 MUST-HAVES From

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3 Blind Saints ...... 18 Deadfall ...... 20 Measuring Methods for Artists ...... 64 10 Minute Solution: Tighten & Tone Pilates ...... 58 Deathtrap ...... 35 Merce Cunningham Dance Company ...... 76 360 ...... 18 Detropia ...... 50 Method to the Madness of Jerry Lewis ...... 70 900 Days ...... 65 Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has to Travel ...... 20 Minds in the Water ...... 56 (A)Sexual: A Minority No Longer Silent ...... 60 Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg ...... 74 Mr. Cao Goes to Washington ...... 52 After Kony: Staging Hope ...... 49 Discoveries…America’s National Parks: Hawaii ...... 67 Neil Sedaka in Concert ...... 76 Your Complete Video Collection Management Resource Ai Weiwei: Never Sorry ...... 68 Do You Have What It Takes? ...... 60 Never Give Up! ...... 66 All’s Well That Ends Well ...... 63 Do-Deca-Pentathlon, The ...... 20 Nobody Walks ...... 26 Alps ...... 18 Doomsday Book ...... 21 Olmsted and America’s Urban Parks ...... 70 Includes Video Librarian Magazine Plus Online Access to 30,000 DVD/Blu-ray/VHS Reviews Amazing World of Gumball ...... 42 Doomsday Preppers: Season 1 ...... 50 Other Son, The ...... 26 Anger Management: Season One ...... 35 Downton Abbey: Season 3 ...... 35 Out on a Limb ...... 57 Anna Karenina ...... 18 Dr. Lisa: Yoga Blast ...... 58 Paco de Lucía & Group: Jazz ...... 77 Any Day Now ...... 18 Due Process ...... 54 Pan Am: Complete Series ...... 39 Arabian Horse: A Gift from the Desert ...... 55 Element: Intro to Yoga ...... 58 Paranormal Activity 4 ...... 28 Argo ...... 19 Enlightened: Complete First Season ...... 36 Parental Guidance ...... 28 Atomic States of America, The ...... 50 Escape Fire ...... 57 Pass (on) the Salt: Shaking the Habit ...... 57 Attila ...... 74 Families of Italy ...... 42 Patti Smith: Live at Montreux 2005 ...... 77 Beauty Is Embarrassing ...... 68 FCA! 35 Tour: An Evening with Peter Frampton ...... 74 Paul McCartney: Live Kisses ...... 77 Before You Hook Up ...... 53 First Position ...... 62 Photographic Memory ...... 70 Being Human: Complete Second Season ...... 35 Flying House Project, The ...... 62 Pier Paolo Pasolini’s Trilogy of Life ...... 39 Birders: The Central Park Effect ...... 56 Flying Swords of Dragon Gate ...... 21 Playing for Keeps ...... 28 Born Fighting ...... 65 Follow the Leader ...... 51 Poetry of Resilience ...... 64 Boy Game, The ...... 50 Found Memories ...... 21 Power Rangers Super Samurai: Complete Season ...... 43 Breathing ...... 19 Fred & Vinnie ...... 21 Prenatal & Early Childhood Nutrition ...... 60 From Dust to Dreams ...... 74 Brooklyn Brothers Beat the Best ...... 19 Programmed to Be Fat? ...... 57 Fun Size ...... 21 California Solo ...... 19 Proof Through the Night ...... 70 Future is Now! ...... 51 Californication: Fifth Season ...... 35 Putin’s Kiss ...... 67 Game Change ...... 24 Cape Spin! An American Power Struggle ...... 50 Qatsi Trilogy, The ...... 39 Gandu ...... 24 Captivated ...... 48 Racing Thoughts (Ca Tourne Dans Ma Tete) ...... 48 Gary Moore: Blues for Jimi ...... 74 Re-Emerging: The Jews of Nigeria ...... 48 Care Farms of the Netherlands ...... 47 Gayby ...... 24 Celebrity Trials in the Media ...... 54 Red Hook Summer ...... 28 Gentle Yoga for Every Body ...... 58 Rehearsal for a Sicilian Tragedy ...... 52 Chasing Mavericks ...... 19 George Lopez: It’s Not Me, It’s You ...... 63 Chicken with Plums ...... 19 Rise of the Guardians ...... 30 Giovanna d’Arco ...... 75 Ristorante Paradiso ...... 73 Children Who Chase Lost Voices ...... 73 Girls: Complete First Season ...... 36 China Heavyweight ...... 61 Royal Affair, A ...... 30 Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site ...... 43 Rust and Bone ...... 30 Chowder ...... 42 Grieving the Sudden Death of a Loved One ...... 47 Citadel ...... 20 Samsara ...... 30 Grrrl Love and Revolution: Riot Grrrl NYC ...... 51 Schizo ...... 39 Crimes Against the Environment ...... 54 Gypsy ...... 36 Each Video Librarian Plus! Sesame Street—Preschool is Cool: Making Friends ...... 47 Critter Sitter & Lulu’s Magic Wand ...... 42 Half the Sky ...... 51 Seven-Per-Cent Solution, The ...... 39 Dallas: Complete First Season ...... 35 Hannah and Her Sisters ...... 36 Shameless: Complete Second Season ...... 40 Subscription Includes: Dance Off the Inches: Latin Cardio Party ...... 58 Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai ...... 24 She-Wolves: England’s Early Queens ...... 67 Day He Arrives, The ...... 20 Have You Heard from Johannesburg ...... 65 Sholem Aleichem: Laughing in the Darkness ...... 72 Henry Clay and the Struggle for the Union ...... 65 Showing Up ...... 64 Video Librarian magazine Here I Learned to Love ...... 66 Hi! Fly Guy ...... 42 Siberian Tiger Quest ...... 56 Hip Hop Walk ...... 59 Simpsons: Fifteenth Season ...... 40 30,000 DVD/Blu-ray/VHS reviews Advertiser Directory Hipsters ...... 24 Sinister ...... 30 Hitchcock ...... 24 Skyfall ...... 32 searchable by title, text, date, star Action! 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made in the future by non-profit filmmak- comes to adding a DVD or Blu-ray title to ers…it is critical that institutions purchase their libraries for circulation. The major You’ve Got Mail the appropriate version.” The letter writer difference is that an educational institution concludes with an offer to purchase My can also legally show a title in a classroom I wrote my first editorial about public Perestroika at a one-time discount price setting thanks to the “face-to-face teaching performance rights over a quarter-century of $150, before asking that the library exemption,” which allows for screenings in ago. “please remove the home video DVD (New a face-to-face teaching situation as long as At that time, various filmmakers and Video/Docurama) version from your library the title is related to the curriculum. distributors were claiming that libraries catalogue immediately.” Of course, filmmakers and distributors could not buy “home video” versions of One could debate the ethical aspects can choose to only sell titles to the in- titles that were also available in an educa- of whether libraries should purchase the stitutional market at whatever price they tional version. more expensive educational version—and set—and many have been doing exactly That wasn’t true then and isn’t true to- I’ve seen good arguments made by people I that for decades. The question of appropri- day, but this is a myth that simply refuses respect on both sides of the question—but ate use arises only when—as in the case of to die. opinion does not amount to law. My Perestroika—a title is made available on Here’s an excerpt from a letter recently The above letter claims incorrectly that home video where it is being sold by a wide sent to a college library: “the only version of My Perestroika that is variety of wholesalers and retailers such as “Dear____ , legally licensed for educational use is dis- Amazon and Best Buy. tributed by New Day Films.” The lesson here is simple and hasn’t We recently noticed that you have a copy The fact is that while public libraries changed a bit in over 25 years. If you con- of My Perestroika in your library’s collec- cannot show films in the library without trol distribution, you control the terms of tion…. According to our records, it seems public performance rights (which may be the transaction. If you release a title into that your library may have inadvertently included in a home-video-priced version the general marketplace, you not only lose purchased the copy of My Perestroika dis- or may not—depending on the rights that control, but you are also subject to the tributed by New Video/Docurama. Unfortu- holder), the First Sale Doctrine gives them existing law. nately, this version is for home use only. The the right to circulate any legally acquired Longtime video librarians know all of only version of My Perestroika that is legally DVD or Blu-ray title to patrons, including this, of course, but it’s occasionally worth licensed for educational use is distributed home video editions, without any further repeating for those newcomers to the by New Day Films. In order for independent permission required. profession who may one day find a similar films such asMy Perestroika to exist for use Educational institutions have the exact letter in the mail. in teaching, and so they can continue to be same rights as public libraries when it Randy Pitman

VIDEO LIBRARIAN 82 MARCH/APRIL 2013 INTRODUCING THE Organa Kids COLLECTION ON DVD

Stories from East of the Moon The Adventures of Mouse and Mole The Mousehole Cat Happy Valley SRP: $19.95 Volume 1 • SRP: $19.95 SRP: $19.95 Volume 1 • SRP: $14.95 ISBN: 8-91273-00224-8 ISBN: 8-91273-00223-1 ISBN: 8-91273-00225-5 ISBN: 8-91273-00234-7 Volume 2 • SRP: $19.95 Volume 2 • SRP: $14.95 ISBN: 8-91273-00229-3 ISBN: 8-91273-00235-4 Volume 3 Coming Soon!

JOIN MISSY AND HER SPINNING TALES!

Mila is an 8-year-old girl, bursting with energy. A bit of a tomboy, she is very proud of her jumpingJOIN MISSY pig-tails. AND HER Mila SPINNING loves to tellTALES! stories in her own voice, always adding a lot ofMila humour is an and8-year-old imagination. girl, bursting She espe- with ciallyenergy. likes to A retell bit of aclassic tomboy, tales. she Sheis very proud addsof zany her details jumping and pig-tails. twists thatMila makeloves toher tell versionstories unique in herand own unforgettable! voice, always Come adding a and relivelot of somehumour old and tales imagination. with Mila! She espe- cially likes to retell classic tales. She adds zany details and twists that make her version unique and unforgettable! Come EPISODES: The Hidden Princess The Housesand ofrelive the Pig some Brothers old tales with Mila! The Toupouloupou Elvis Baba Yaga the Witch Captain Bloody-Nose, the Pirate Djoha's Last Lie The Leprechaun's Treasure

PibouleEPISODES: and the Bear Aurel the Mocker Volume 1 Strabiwolf,The Hidden the Telltale Princess PanchoThe Pimento's Houses of Riddle the Pig Brothers The DonkeyThe Toupouloupou and the King Elvis Baba Yaga the Witch Captain Bloody-Nose, the Pirate Djoha'sRunning Last Time: Lie 91 minutes The Leprechaun's Language: English Treasure Audio: 2.0

PibouleFormat: and NTSC the Color Bear CountryAurel of the Origin: Mocker France SKU: ORG312 Volume 1 Strabiwolf, the Telltale Pancho Pimento's Riddle The Donkey and the King

Running Time: 91 minutes Language: English Audio: 2.0

Format: NTSC©2007 PlanetColor Nemo Animation/Piwi/Fleurus Country ofPresse/Planet Origin: Nemo France Belgique. All Rights Reserved. SKU: ORG312 ©2012 Organa L.L.C., DVD and Packaging Volume 1

©2007 Planet Nemo Animation/Piwi/Fleurus Presse/Planet Nemo Belgique. All Rights Reserved. ©2012 Organa L.L.C., DVD and Packaging Volume 1

Nelly & Caesar Missy Mila Twisted Tales Dougie in Disguise Iris: the Happy Professor Volume 1 • SRP: $19.95 Volume 1 • SRP: $19.95 Volume 1 • SRP: $19.95 Volume 1 • SRP: $19.95 ISBN: 8-91273-00239-2 ISBN: 8-91273-00241-5 ISBN: 8-91273-00237-8 ISBN: 8-91273-00232-3 Volume 2 • SRP: $19.95 Volume 2 • SRP: $19.95 Volume 2 • SRP: $19.95 Volume 2 • SRP: $19.95 ISBN: 8-91273-00240-8 ISBN: 8-91273-00242-2 ISBN: 8-91273-00238-5 ISBN: 8-91273-00243-9

The Angel and The Soldier Boy Pizza Party! Yoga Class for kids A /On Christmas Eve Castle Farm SRP: $19.95 SRP: $19.95 SRP: $19.95 Volume 1 • SRP: $14.95 ISBN: 8-91273-00226-2 ISBN: 8-91273-00231-6 ISBN: 8 91273-00227-9 ISBN: 8-91273-00233-0 Volume 2 • SRP: $14.95 ISBN: 8-91273-00236-1

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